In darkness , poachers cut the burl from the base of redwoods in California . The lumpy growth is sold for thousands of dollars to make furniture . A few years ago a group of scientists discovered that redwood trees can be used as an alternative source of renewable energy. One official likens the burl poaching to killing elephants for their tusks .
In darkness , poachers cut the burl from the base of redwoods in California . The lumpy growth is sold for thousands of dollars to make furniture . Officials close a road through the redwood forest at night to protect Earth 's tallest trees . One official likens the burl poaching to killing elephants for their tusks .