[Jim Jakosh]

Hi Tooch. I'm building a log and slab table in Az next year, but the mesquite wood I'm using has dried a year and I'll cut off any cracked ends. But if you're going with green wood, it will move in the drying process and probably crack in some areas. For the slab, cut it oversize in length and let it dry as long as you can and cut off any checking/cracking on the ends. It may warp in the process so leave enough to flatten the top surface. Cracking in the legs gives it character.

If you have time, coat the ends with anchor seal to minimize the checking/cracking. I don't know if removing the bark would be an advantage. On green wood it will be a tough job too.

My 2 cents worth…................Jim