: I used to work for the Forest Pathology group at UC Berkely in the Department
: of Plant Pathology.

: Blue stain is caused by a variety of fungi which accompany bark beetles. It
: is found in the sapwood of beetle-killed trees and by itself has no real
: impact on wood strength or quality.

: Other fungi are also present along with blue stain in most cases, but if the
: trees are harvested quickly after the beetles kill them there should be no
: practical change in wood strength. If there is a long delay between tree
: death and the log being turned into boards there could be some problems.

: You may have seen log decks being watered at sawmills as you drive by them.
: This is done to keep the moisture conditions wrong for insect attack and
: stain fungi growth. Wet logs won't normally be attacked by bark or
: ambrosia beetles and wet wood doesn't stain easily.

: Sounds like you have found a good deal for making some very pretty paddles.

Great into Scott. Thanks!

Clears up some stuff for me and Now! I really have to start watching those wood piles. Time to start collecting..

Rehd