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ALASKA-CEDAR (Chamaecyparis nootkatensis)
Other names: yellow cedar, yellow cypress, Alaska cypress, Sitka cypress

VERY GOOD

Alaska cedar is found from Oregon to the Kenai in Alaska but is primarily an Alaskan tree. It grows to a very large size, up to 6 or 7 ft. in diameter with an enlarged butt, and may live over 1000 years. It is logged extensively. 

Like the other cedars the wood is soft but is yellow in color with a distinct "cedar smell". The heartwood is almost immune to decay. The original blaze is usually only partially healed with the scribing weathered away, unless small trees were marked.

Select young trees, 12" to 16" diameter, if possible. Keep the blaze a~ narrow as possible and cut the bottom upward with a clean stroke to improve drainage of rainwater. Blaze to firm wood, 1/2 inch below the cambium layer and use a ~ scribe to avoid tearing the wood. Painting the blaze may reduce or retard weathering.