Helping Nature's Balance Western Juniper Through Reclamation and Utilization
Juniper is often considered public enemy #1. Yes, it is a native species, but decades of fire suppression and grazing have allowed the tree to spread voraciously over Eastern and Central Oregon. Our finding wood that has already been downed is another plus to the “going green” movement, because we're just utilizing something which could otherwise be a complete waste.
Realizing all of the possibilities to help combat these problems, and utilize the wood, we launched Joseph’s Juniper in 2011. As a juniper reclamation and lumber business we're providing organic alternative wood products to people who want something more natural than the chemically treated lumber typically used in landscaping and fencing projects, recycling the wood and helping to restore Juniper's reputation.
Locally Sourced Juniper Wood -- A Positive Option
Juniper is a nice locally sourced alternative to redwoods or cedar woods. You don’t have to treat it — it’s naturally rot-resistant. It’s also supporting the local economy through employment opportunities, and is also tied to rangeland restoration.A member of the cedar family, Juniper can have a deep red or purple heartwood and soft, strippy bark, making it a very attractive element of your porch or hearth. Like piñon, juniper is a dense, slow-growing, shrubby tree that is prolific in America's Southwest. We're harvesting, milling and processing reclaimed Juniper wood for everything from firewood to lumber suitable for landscaping, fencing and decking, wainscoting and more.
Organic or “going green” wineries are a huge part of the industry wanting Juniper as wineries cannot use any kind of wood that has chemicals on it, like pressure-treated poles, so Juniper is a real benefit to their purposes.
Characteristics of Western Juniper
Grain/Texture: Fine, even texture. Rot Resistance: Rated as very durable. (The wood is commonly used for fence-posts.) Workability: Easy to work with both hand and machine tools. Once dried, juniper wood shrinks and swells less than many other Pacific Northwest species such as Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, and western redcedar. Juniper has some unique bending properties. Glues and finishes well. Odor: Has a distinct, lingering odor resembling cedar, though not as intense, and more on the acrid side.
Joseph's Juniper in the News
