i must say that I love going into the bush and collecting wood for the tanks. A few tips, I do not know if you need permission from anybody so check this out. I prefer to collect wood from river or creek area. make sure it has not been sprayed by pesticides . If you have a chance make sure you can identify the wood or tree, as in Australia some trees are toxic and not suitable. Also in Australia you sometimes need a permit to collect wood. I look for dead trees that have been eated in the middle by termites. This also indicates to me it is a softer wood, ideal for rasping. Make sure wood is dead and dry. Before using I soak in a large bucket with water conditioner. I leave this outside. I then cut these to size and place slate on one end and voila a natural cave. You will find some woods will get a film of white fluff etc. You can take this wood out again and let it dry again for a long time. Good luck and have fun cheers jk :thumbup:
PS I do not take huge amounts at all, just a few pieces.