Frequently asked questions

What is urban wood?

Urban wood is salvaged from tree removal operations when trees are cut down due to death, disease, development, or other causes. Traditionally, wood from these kinds of practices was treated as waste and, at best, used for mulch or firewood. Members of the Urban Wood Network are trying to see this valuable resource find its highest and best use.



Will your network buy my yard trees?

Sorry, but no. We aren't in the logging business, so we don't purchase timber from the stump. Businesses in the Urban Wood Network act more like recyclers by tracking down and finding uses for unwanted logs.



You reclaim wood! Will you buy my old barn?

No. While some businesses in our network work with a variety of reclaimed wood sources, the Urban Wood Network is primarily focused on salvaging unwanted landscape trees.



What does urban wood look like?

Urban wood mostly looks just like any other new lumber. Coming from intact logs saved from the chipper, it is both a reclaimed and brand-new product, all at the same time. You can find urban wood in any species that grows in local yards and neighborhoods. Whether you are looking for knot-free lumber in popular species like walnut or cherry, or if you are searching for something with tons of character in an unconventional species, members of the Urban Wood Network can help you out.



What is the Michigan Urban Wood Network?

We are a group of people, organizations, and businesses all working together to help promote the idea of using urban wood in Michigan. Our partners work on different projects and/or offer different services, but they all share a common vision for putting dead and dying trees to better use. We are part of a larger Urban Wood Network that connects partners in other states around this same goal.



My business or community wastes a lot of wood. How can I learn more?

Get in touch! We can help you explore your options.



This project is supported by the USDA Forest Service Northeastern Area, State and Private Forestry Landscape Scale Restoration Grant Program and is organized by the Sustainable Resources Alliance. Additional assistance comes from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

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Membership is available to the full diversity of stakeholders (including businesses, organizations, and individuals) interested in finding the highest and best use of Michigan's urban forest resources.  A listing on the Michigan Urban Wood Network is open to all who agree to the basic membership tenets of the Urban Wood Network; it does not imply endorsement of or preference for any named companies, nor does it act as proof or certification of any specific business practices.

© 2023 by Sustainable Resources Alliance.

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