Photo by Tomas van Houtryve tomasvh / A trimmer climbs an oak tree that has been cultivated to be exceptionally tall, in the forest of Bercé in France. Silviculture has a long history in France, stretching back to the time of the monarchy, when tall, straight trees were grown for ship masts. Eight trees from this grove, including this one, are scheduled for harvest this year—to form the base of the new spire of the cathedral of Notre-Dame of Paris. The previous spire burned in April 2019. New trees are planted each year to replace the old, maintaining the centuries-old regeneration of the forests. This tree is estimated to be 230 years old. Follow tomasvh and the public institution in charge of reconstruction, rebatirnotredamedeparis for more on Notre-Dame. #notredamedeparis