The ponderosas that were killed by beetles on our property burned up pretty well during the missionary ridge fire. But before that, we took some of the trees down and some scraps were left outside. These rotted very quickly, and cut/dead ponderosa rots quickly even if it's not been beetled. So I doubt it would make a good tie, even if it's coated in creosote.
One season of snow on dead untreated ponderosa pretty much ends any heavy duty uses for it. And if it’s been infested with beetles, the rotting time is much quicker.
Matt
Lake Forest, CA
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