foraging frustration

[woodchipandy]

I have searched high and low for the elusive DW. According to the dispersion charts I have seen, there are pockets in my area. My wife is getting irritated with me, because I can't drive by sticky looking spots without pulling over getting on my boots and telling her and the kids to "sit tight, I'll be right back. I am certainly too cheap to purchase any, besides all of you know it's more rewarding to carve wood that is truly your own from start to finish. I suppose I have to get farther north. Any one in WI actually find any themselves? I don't expect any honey hole disclosures. Just confirmation it actually exists. Happy New Year to all and Keep your stick on the ice.

[DiamondWillow]

Yes indeed there is DW in Wisconsin. I am located in Minnesota but I had a gal call me from Wisc call me one time and ask if I wanted to buy some DW from her wholesale. As I recall she was located SE of Superior someplace. I am thinking 75 or 100 miles SE..... Keep on looking it is there. It is usually located along a swampy area where there is water. It will not be growing in the water but on some higher ground along watery areas.

Good luck on your search.....

Gene

[Boydman]

I live in a valley here in Alaska........we are at 1500' above sea level. The diamond willow here is along waterways and mostly in shaded areas where the fungus likes the cool/moist environ for attacking the new branches of willow. We have many species of willow here....23 according to the biologists...but, the diamond willow likes the shade...and not out in the open, so look close to the tammerack/pine scrub tree areas......good luck in your willow hunts...don't forget to turn around regularly......some are shy and you gotta look close!

Greg

[Marvin Little]

Andy, while you are searching for diamond willow do not overlook other good stick blanks. I do not know what grows in your area but some species do not have a tap root and if you dig them up you will often find a primary root that makes a great natural handle. In my area I did up dogwood, sassafras, cherry, plum and sourwood.

Marvin

[woodchipandy]

I appreciate the encouragement, I am sure my luck is bound to change. I have found other nice pieces and do enjoy just getting out there.