It has been pointed out to me that most mills are automated to send cuttoffs to the chipper, so I guess I'm now looking for retail sources for rough cut lumber in or around BR, pine or other. The home centers only carry finished /planed lumber.
There are a few local people that have small sawmills, but most do not cut pine because it is cheap and hard on the blades. How much do you need and does it have to be pine?
Pine was recommended for cheapness, availability, and adequate longevity. I am definately not married to the idea.
We minimally need pieces about 5" wide and 10" long (at 3/4" thick, comes to about 1.5 bft per house), but wider and longer pieces are also on the wish list as I'd like to also build a large rocket style bat house (pieces up to 12" wide and 36" long), though I can use some creative joinery as necessary.
Thanks for the leads so far guys. I'll make some calls tomorrow, but any more help would be appreciated!
With those size requirements, maybe catch dog ear fence boards on sale. A 6' board can go as low as $.89 each when on sale. I probably have a dozen or so leftovers you can have, they have some age.