In 1978, Jon Carroll (co-owner) planted trees with the largest worker-owned co-op in the United States, Hoedads Reforestation Cooperative. During this time, he spent half the year in Northwest forests with his family. This included his 3-year-old son, Jen Carroll (co-owner). The pair spent time working and living among the trees. At first, they began by pitching a tent, but soon realized living this way was difficult once the harshness of winter weather set in.