A large sequoia tree linked to a famous naturalist was standing in the way of progress. So more than a century after it was planted as a sapling in a doctor's yard in Boise, Idaho, the 10-story tree is on the move, shifting across the street to make way for a hospital expansion, reports the AP. The tree is expected to reach its new turf Sunday. Here are some things to know about it and its trip months in the making.
- The story: More than 100 years ago John Muir sent four sequoia seedlings to Emile Grandjean, an early employee of the US Forest Service in Idaho. The only one of the four that still exists is being moved by St. Luke's Health System, which is spending $300,000 to move the 98-foot tree to city property two blocks away. "We understand the importance of this tree to this community," says a rep. Cutting it down "was never even an option."