Thanks Robert,
I appreciate your insight as well. We are in the process of getting some material quotes at the moment that will certainly impact the scale/approach. We are thinking of going with Ginkgo trees (hopefully three) with an initial trunk diameter of about 6″ and a canopy of 8′. The total volume of soil is approx 3-4,000 cu. ft.
Your idea of the mortar sacks is also interesting. Beyond the increased structural stability, do you suppose those are any cheaper than the sand bags?