The Forestry Forum

I was milling a good size walnut yesterday (24") and it was caked with rocks and grit.  The bark was already in bad shape so I peeled the bark off with a hand crowbar.  I was told by someone locally that they peel all of their walnut when they mill. I was just wondering if anyone else has tried this and if so does it adversely effect the quality of the wood or shorten drying time?  And yes, I almost always do power wash my trees but this one's bark was already in bad shape. 

I don't intentionally peel my walnut logs, but at certain times of the year, the bark just falls off by handling and moving.  I've never noticed any degrade or problems with drying or milling.

Will not affect the quality of the wood.  Might slightly shorten drying time, but since most drying will be on the face of the boards versus the edges, it won't make much difference. 

I assume that you are sawing the walnut into boards?

Actually, for me i wish all the bark would peel off easy. would make my day go better.

Walnut is among the easier to peel.  With that said it still takes some effort with a spud.  If you're cutting 4/4 or 5/4 boards, it definitely easier peeling it after you've cut the boards using your palm to start it.  But if you're peeling in log form to remove dirt and rocks, go for it.  It's not going to hurt you.  But  if you are Not milling right away, peeling the bark will probably make the sides dry a little faster, FYI.  I wouldn't peel it and leave it sit drying for a month before milling preferably.

Thanks guys!  I am sawing it all into 2-4" thick live edge slabs.