I applaud the makers of bark siding. It is a way to use the entire tree and results in a siding that is naturally more resistant to insects, fire, rot, etc. Plus, it never needs painting, looks great, and lasts a very long time. We are putting bark siding on a mountain home we are building and it is gorgeous.
Do the next thing next. That's a pretty good rule. Read the tiny ad, that's a pretty good rule, too.
Your suggestions have been mashed into the PIE page - wuddyathink?