> My concern is that the oak, already having begun to warp, is now unstable
> and will either continue to warp (or choose to straighten out) after I
> install it, thus deforming my hull. Should I use it, or should I follow
> through with my first instinct and throw it away?

The wood has warped to the shape it wants to be considering it's current moisture state. If the board is dry it should pretty well stay as it is. If it is wet, clamp it to the shape you want and dry it completely.

Cut the board to shape and seal it with epoxy before installing. Oak can be a little "funny" with epoxy so make sure you de-grease it first.

Hank