(verb) Exclusive to the southern Appalachian region of the United States, the term refers to the taking, or stealing, of copper material to sell to a scrap
yard for a monetary gain. Of all the
precious metals copper is
one that yields the biggest payoff. Though nearly non-existent now, nearer the turn of the twenty-first century when copper prices were at all-time highs copper enthusiasts were cutting down power lines for the thick copper enclosed within. As a result of such exploits some
people did indeed lose their lives. FYI: such practices are indeed felonious. Persons involved in such activities may find themselves incarcerated if caught up in such acts. Be careful, trust no
one.
Back in the
day, whenever they went out harvesting (or) picking copper, it wasn't uncommon for the entire hollow to lose electricity for a
couple of days on account of Chris and
Tommy sawing down several nearby power poles. Motherfucking low-life thieves caused me to miss quite a few episodes of The Montel Williams Show.