Gopherwood Range Theory
John Denke, Biologist
University of North Texas
Fall Semester, 1999

Abstract:

Biologists know that gophers are found only in the Western Hemisphere.
The gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) is its eldest endangered
species living in a Southeastern U.S. range. Also living in this range
(now larger), is the resilient Southern live oak, species (Quercus
virginiana). It has the strongest, naturally-curved massive branches
needed for large-scale wooden shipbuilding. The oldest commissioned
ship still afloat in the world, "Old Ironsides", is built from these
gophers' woods (evergreen forests). Thus "gopher wood" in name, as
limited by its range, is quite possibly the same wood species as USS
Constitution's: Quercus virginiana (after Philip Miller, botanist).

Other biologists suggest three of the four known Gopherus living
species: G. agassizii, G. berlandieri and G. flavomarginatus. However,
all three range in deserts (no forests). Ancient stone anchors, similar
to 5,000-year-old anchors found at Bimini and the Middle East, are
common along U.S. Gulf Coast hurricane "flood" zones.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gopher_wood

Parentheses around "flood"?
Should "zones" be "areas"?

Thanks for helping.