Category Archives: hand tools

In an attempt to move closer to sustainability (Thinking in Long Terms), I have begun the process of coppicing black locusts for many uses, primarily firewood for heating purposes. Black locusts have among the highest BTU’s per cord of North American trees, and have a few properties which make them endearing to me personally and to many of the homesteading persuasion. They are a pioneer species which can compete with grass species favorably if not mowed, are among the fastest growing hardwoods, are leguminous nitrogen fixers, are slightly more deer resistant than other trees due to their sharp thorns, and the wood has been known to last decades as fence posts. Their thorns do make a nuisance for the grower as well as the deer, but a good pair of leather gloves mostly makes it a non-issue. I will try to provide a detailed data-set as this project goes on so that we can all benefit from more than just anecdotes, and over time I think it will if nothing else allow me to better plan my own projects and heating needs.