Local Boise Craftsman Rescues Trees from Landfill to Supply Unique Wood for Projects
Zane Everman is saving trees in Boise, Idaho, from being thrown away. He rescues trees that are damaged or removed during local development. Instead of ending up in landfills, these trees are transformed into valuable wood for craftsmen and homeowners.
Everman describes himself as a craftsman. He has built various furniture pieces for places like Barbarian Brewing. Recently, he started his sawmill company, Les Boise Milling, to repurpose local wood.
He has already saved 50 trees since March and aims to save 100 more in the coming months. Everman works with local governments and organizations to identify trees scheduled for removal. He can cut large trees using a special band saw that no one else in the area has. This saw can cut slabs up to 67 inches in diameter.
After cutting, the wood is dried in an industrial kiln. This process takes two months, compared to one year if left to air dry. Everman ensures the wood is sterilized and bug-free during this drying phase. Once dried, he flattens and smooths the slabs.
How can community members get involved in Zane Everman’s tree rescue and woodworking efforts?
An Interview with Zane Everman: Rescuing Trees and Crafting Unique Wood Pieces in Boise, Idaho
NewsDirectory3: Zane, thank you for joining us today. Can you tell us what inspired you to start saving trees in Boise that would otherwise be discarded?
Zane Everman: Thank you for having me! My inspiration came from a combination of my passion for craftsmanship and a deep respect for the environment. When I saw how many beautiful trees were being removed for local development, I realized I could do something to minimize the waste. Each tree holds potential, and I believe it deserves a chance to be repurposed rather than ending up in a landfill.
NewsDirectory3: You mentioned that you have already saved 50 trees since March. How do you identify which trees to rescue?
Zane Everman: I collaborate closely with local governments and organizations. They notify me about trees scheduled for removal, whether due to construction or other reasons. I evaluate the trees to see if they can be salvaged. My goal is to rescue as many as possible, and I have set my sights on saving 100 more in the coming months.
NewsDirectory3: Can you explain the process you use to transform these trees into usable wood?
Zane Everman: Absolutely. I use a unique band saw that no one else in the area has, allowing me to cut large trees with precision. This saw can handle slabs up to 67 inches in diameter. Once the trees are cut, I dry the wood in an industrial kiln, which takes about two months—much faster than the year it would take if air-dried. During this phase, I also ensure the wood is sterilized and bug-free. After drying, I flatten and smooth the slabs for various uses.
NewsDirectory3: What kind of products do you create from this wood, and how can local residents get involved?
Zane Everman: I craft a variety of furniture pieces for businesses like Barbarian Brewing, but I also have a collection available for community members. I encourage people to come by and explore my unique wood pieces, as each slab carries its own story. I hope to inspire creativity and imagination in potential buyers so they can create furniture that reflects their personal journeys.
NewsDirectory3: Your work seems to have a dual benefit—saving trees while promoting craftsmanship in the community. How do you feel about this impact?
Zane Everman: It’s incredibly fulfilling. Not only does my work contribute to environmental sustainability by reducing waste, but it also supports local craftsmanship. By providing unique wood options and encouraging creativity, I hope to foster a culture where people appreciate the artistry involved in woodcrafting. I invite anyone interested to visit my collection and find that perfect piece of wood for their next project. Together, we can keep the stories of these trees alive.
NewsDirectory3: Thank you, Zane, for sharing your inspiring work with us. We look forward to seeing how you continue to make a positive impact in the Boise community.
Zane Everman: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure to share my journey, and I appreciate your support.
Customers can visit Everman to find unique wood pieces for their projects. He encourages creativity and imagination in potential buyers. He hopes to help people create furniture that carries personal stories and memories.
Everman’s work not only benefits the environment by reducing waste but also provides opportunities for craftsmanship in the community. He invites anyone interested to explore his collection and find a special piece of wood for their next project.