oak sources?

[seravitae]

Hi guys,

considering the astronomical prices of a small amount of oak chips at homebrew stores, i was wondernig if anyone had any tips for locating oak suitable for aging.. Im hesitant to just go to some wood/timber place and ask for some because its probably been treated with craploads of pesticides and other nasties.

Any ideas how or where I might try for "organic" / non-treated? My only other idea was to buy an old barrel, use it as is, or chip it up and use it in glass bottles. Still astronomically priced though.