Trees removed for the Grow Community housing development will be reused.

Root balls from the trees have been added to the city’s stockpile for habitat restoration projects and donated to Coyote Woodshop to make custom furniture.

“They’re set into the ground and over time they degrade, they help the ecosystem return,” said Chris Hamner, engineering manager for the city.

When trees are taken down for city projects, Hamner explained, the larger root balls are added to the city’s reserve for restoration projects.

Root balls are used for effluent lines, shoreline restoration projects and imbedded at sites where sewer beach mains have broken.

Cedar root balls and wood have also been salvaged for craftsman furniture at Dave Kotz’ Coyote Woodshop. The material may be used as siding and trim material or for larger future projects.