Wood from its fallen limbs was turned into gavels for Maryland judges, and the state Department of General Services is seeking public proposals on how best to use the remmants of the 460-year-old Wye Oak, which was toppled by a storm in June.

The Department of Natural Resources previously gathered ideas on how to salvage the remains of the official state tree. General Services is seeking proposals on how to implement them as part of the Wye Oak Commemorative Project.

Proposals for using the remains are requested in one or more of five categories: education and public outreach; research and preservation; artwork and furniture; pieces of fine crafts and woodworking; and souvenirs and memorabilia.

The deadline for submissions is Sept. 20. For proposal entry information, call 410-767-4632 or visit the Web site at www.dgs. state.md.us/wyeoak and select "Requests for Expressions of Interest."