Once the logs are cut, you can treat them with an aqueous boric acid solution to keep the bugs from eating them - that will penetrate several inches into the wood.
No need to waste 2 feet on the ends unless you are thinking of removing drying check? Usually 6 to 8 inches over is plenty.
There is a guy around here with a Mill that saws by the hour and he is fast! Still say it is cheaper than buying one!
