Maple Burl Thefts in Willamette Park

June 7, 2023 - We are saddened to report the theft of Maple tree burls from multiple trees within Willamette Park in the past several months. Maple tree burls are rounded outgrowths on the tree’s trunk and are often sought out and used for fine woodworking because of their unusual and beautiful grain structure. Removal of burls from a healthy tree often damages the tree beyond survival and results in the tree’s death. Our city foresters would never cut a burl off a healthy tree in the park.  

We are aware of one incident of burl cutting in January 2023 and a more recent incident affecting two different trees in May 2023. In total, 16 burls were removed between the two incidents from three trees ranging in age from around 40 to 100 years old. We are actively investigating these cases as theft and vandalism of our precious natural resources. Evidence suggests the suspect(s) would have used a long bar power chainsaw to facilitate the cuts efficiently in one pass. The burls themselves were large, weighing between an estimated 50 to 300 pounds, and would require multiple trips to a waiting vehicle.

We are asking for the public’s help with identifying the suspect(s) who are responsible for this theft. Anyone who might have witnessed these incidents or has information is asked to contact Officer Peyton Sassaman at the Corvallis Police Department. Officer Sassaman can be reached at 541-766-6924.