The fungi that causes blue mold, which in its initial stage doesn't effect the strength of the wood. Sapwood is what the fungi thrives on because of the carbohydrates stored in the cells. The best way to control it is chemically inhibiting the fungi. Borate salts (Borax) kills the fungi. There are commercial solutions that can be sprayed on such as YardGuard, Timbor etc. These can be obtained from log home supply places or contact a local sawmill and ask what they use to dip their lumber in to prevent staining. Also you can use a wax emulsion to end seal the logs and timbers. Lee Valley Tools has one called End Seal. As for the dead and diseased trees, they can still be cut in to useable lumber. I sawed lots of cull logs go through the mill I was the sawyer in. One thing I'd like to emphasize is cut the logs straight. You get better grade lumber that way. Hope this helps.

[This message has been edited by Mark L Surnoskie (edited 03-10-2001).]

[This message has been edited by Mark L Surnoskie (edited 03-10-2001).]