Well, the Bureau of Land Management Office in Medford Silviculturist called me back today and said to come and sign-out their increment borer. So that's one item.
Marked white arrows for a 15' radius around the tree today, and called-in for a utility line locate so I can use my small auger to aerate and sample the soil - mainly want to what the texture and color is like.
But I think the Extension Service will donate a soil test for me on this one.
Took some video today - in fact, I think I'll make a webpage for this project: for a while since the historic part is a novelty. I'll add the video link from the page so people can see more about the condition. So often, the video makes much more sense than just images.
EDIT.............
Made page w/ video link
Catalpa Project
This tree's longevity may well depend on the lower 1/2 of the tree and soil care.