Children and adults alike were devastated to see the damage a man caused last week when he illegally hacked up the suspected “Indian marker tree” on Peavy. Luckily, city tree experts are hopeful the unusually shaped tree will heal and continue to grow for future generations.

But the question was asked: What should become of the ill-gotten wood?

With its lucrative value, it would be a shame to waste it, but it is unclear if the chunks of timber are needed in the criminal trial against the unknown tree assailant. Neighbor Amy Martin told the Advocate that several neighbors discussed giving the fresh pecan to One90 Smoked Meats, a locally owned shop with a long history of giving back to the community.

“All agreed the wood should go to One90 Smoked Meats, since they provide free food for police functions, but didn’t know how to make that happen as it is the property of the park department and also evidence in a legal case,” Martin said in an email.

Herman Guerra of One90 Smoked Meats says he has now taken possession of the wood, although he doesn’t plan to do anything but dry it until he gets the legal all-clear from the city. “If anyone wants it back at any point, I’ll hand it right over,” he says.

But if he’s allowed to keep the wood, he will pay it forward by hosting a series of free community barbecues. “We’ll smoke up ribs and brisket and all sorts of stuff to give the neighbors,” Guerra says. “We’ll pick a couple different dates to give people options.”

Dates have not yet been selected, obviously, but the Advocate will share the news with readers when all plans have been finalized.