How can I track my progress in finding and using ancient bark?

Tracking your progress in finding and using ancient bark in Valheim is essential for crafting advanced items and progressing through the game. Ancient bark is a valuable resource primarily found in the Swamp biome, and it is used to craft items like the Draugr Fang bow, iron-tier weapons, and the fermenter. To effectively track your progress, you need to understand where to find ancient bark, how to harvest it, and how to use it in crafting.\n\nFirst, you must locate the Swamp biome, which is identifiable by its dark, murky atmosphere, leafless trees, and waterlogged terrain. Ancient bark is obtained by chopping down ancient trees, which are large, gnarled trees with twisted roots. These trees are abundant in the Swamp biome, but you will need a bronze axe or better to harvest them. If you are new to the game, ensure you have upgraded your tools before venturing into the Swamp, as it is a dangerous biome filled with enemies like Draugr, Leeches, and Blobs.\n\nOnce you have the appropriate tools, explore the Swamp biome and look for ancient trees. Mark their locations on your map using the in-game map marker system (press M to open the map and right-click to place a marker). This will help you track where you have already harvested ancient bark and where you can return for more. Ancient bark is a renewable resource, as ancient trees respawn over time, so revisiting marked locations can be beneficial.\n\nAfter collecting ancient bark, you can use it to craft various items at the forge or workbench. For example, the Draugr Fang bow requires 10 ancient bark, 20 silver, 10 guck, and 2 deer hide. The fermenter, which is used to create meads and potions, requires 30 ancient bark, 5 bronze, and 10 resin. Keep track of your crafting goals by noting the required materials in your inventory or on a piece of paper. This will help you stay organized and ensure you gather enough ancient bark for your needs.\n\nOne common challenge players face is surviving in the Swamp biome while harvesting ancient bark. To mitigate this, prepare adequately before entering the Swamp. Bring poison resistance mead to counter the Blobs'' poison attacks, a strong weapon like a bronze mace for dealing with Draugr, and a shield for blocking enemy attacks. Additionally, wear armor like troll hide or bronze armor to increase your survivability. Building a small outpost near the Swamp biome can also provide a safe haven for resting and storing resources.\n\nTo maximize your efficiency, consider using a cart to transport large quantities of ancient bark back to your base. The Swamp biome is often close to water, so you can also use a karve or longship to transport resources if your base is near a coastline. This will save time and reduce the risk of losing resources to enemies or environmental hazards.\n\nIn summary, tracking your progress with ancient bark involves locating and marking ancient trees in the Swamp biome, harvesting them with the right tools, and using the bark for crafting. By preparing adequately, organizing your resources, and using efficient transportation methods, you can streamline your progress and make the most of this valuable resource. Happy crafting, Viking!