So, you think Genny's right? Well, s/he is. Actually it was Ridgewood Grove State Park, just south of Eureka, CA. (I have been to the Everglades, but not this time.) Mike: they are *very* solid. See the pic; that tunnel was dug out untold years ago and the tree is still living. Yes, Varian, I had a great time...beautiful weather, no humidity, no bugs. And I did take bunches of good photos and got lots of inspiration. Just wish I was good enough... As far as making a redwood, these are very good tips. A full-grown fir would make a decent branch for one of these babies. Unfortunately, I wouldn't know how to map the leaves correctly. If E-on (or anyone else) would be interested, I have some real good hi-res shots of the bark and foilage. A couple interesting points about redwoods: 1. They are the tallest living things on earth, often growing taller than a football field is long. 2. They live over 2,000 years. 3. The bark can grow over a foot thick.