Western red cedar poles most definitely were widely treated with Pentachloraphenol. Western RC will definitely rot at groundlevel - certain soils will cause WRC to rot as fast as most other woods. Western Larch will outlast Western Red Cedar in sandy soils.

Old growth tight ringed red cedar is much more rot resistant than 2nd and 3 rd growth cedar with wider growth rings and a higher percentage of sapwood. By the way in 15 years all the old-growth red cedar is going to be cut where it is allowed to be cut ... in BC anyway

West

: I won't be surprised, however, if they are not treated. WR Cedar is naturally
: very rot resistant, that is why they probably used it in the first place.

: Craig