> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://project-forest-dev.gitbook.io/the-foresters-handbook/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://project-forest-dev.gitbook.io/the-foresters-handbook/overview/mechanics/excavating.md).

# Excavating

<figure><img src="/files/au32kDoBUX2ycFcL146c" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Trees are planted in Project Forest by putting them from your backpack into the empty soil pits. Trees grow over time with the help of enough water and fertilizers and release O2 tokens. But, planted trees can also be excavated at any given time by a player. However, whilst planting is free, excavating a tree consumes 1,000 O2 tokens. After a tree is unearthed, it enters the storage stage where the tree age and generation come to a halt. Stored trees can only be traded at the Project Forest Marketplace.&#x20;

By clicking on a tree, the excavating button (shovel) will appear. After clicking, a pop-up window will prompt whether the player wants to consume O2 tokens to excavate a tree. O2 that has not been collected will be automatically collected during transplantation.

Players may opt to excavate if they wish to remove a particular tree and replace it with a different tree of a higher rating or user preference. &#x20;


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