The bark acts as a moisture barrier. By removing strips you allow moisture escape slowly(reducing checking). This can be done relativly easily as I've discribed in previos post. I do admit removing all the bark would be better, if precaution mention by NH are preformed as well. Pine is notorious for blue stain and borers. To do the logs soon would be best. If thats not an option open the bark to let them breath and roll the pile occasionly so the sun does beat on the top of the pile and blue stain doesn't attach the moist under belly.