Bark spud (tool) Bark spud (tool) The Bark spud, (also known as a Peeling Iron, Peeler Bar, Peeling Spud, or abbreviated to Spud) is an implement which is used to remove bark from felled timber. Most bark spuds have steel heads and wooden handles, typically hickory or ash. The head is curved, sometimes in one direction with a single cutting edge, and sometimes more dish shaped and sharpened on three sides. In use, the sharpened edge is slid between the bark and the wood, removing the bark from the tree in a number of strips. It is especially useful at removing bark without
Alnus rubra frequently used by Native Americans for making masks, bowls, tool handles, and other small goods. The appearance of alder lumber ranges from white through pinkish to light brown, has a relatively soft texture, minimal grain, and has medium luster. It is easily worked, glues well, and takes a good finish. Because of its oily smoke, "A. rubra" is the wood of choice for smoking salmon. Additionally, red alder is often used by scientists as a biomonitoring organism to locate areas prone to ozone pollution, as the leaves react to the presence of high ozone levels by developing red to brown