Hi all, first post here.  Seeking some advice on a large cherry log that my dad has that has a large crotch section.  It is the butt log from a cherry tree.  The butt log is every bit of 40-46 inches diameter and the two branches that make the crotch are each probably ~30 inches.  I didn’t take measurements, but it’s big.  The log length is probably 10-12 feet, maybe a bit more, again, didn’t measure it.  The spread across the “Y” is really wide, so much so that we are unsure of how, who, or what to cut it with. 

The location is southern Michigan.  Right now, the log is on the ground.  I’m not sure we will be able to get it cut for a little while.  My questions are:

1) how should we store it to minimize damage in raw lag form?

2) What are the most common ways to cut a log like this? We’d have to look for somebody to cut it so what kind of equipment should we look for?

3)  How should it be cut?  I understand that cutting across the “Y” to end up with “Y” shaped grain/boards is preferrable.  Should we have it cut as veneer for both our own use and for selling?  Should we have it cut into thicker slabs (8/4 – 10/4) for table or bench work? What other suggestions are there?

Essentially, I’m just beginning the process of trying to figure out what we should do with this thing.  It’s a site to see and I’m sure there is anywhere for 3-5 feet length of crotch wood in the thing.  I wish I had a photo of it – perhaps I can get my parents to get a photo of it so I can post it up here.

Thanks, Kevin