Brought in approx 3000 lbs first cut Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana) for raised bed projects (see pics).  Due to length of raw material I moved band saw and table saw outside.  Project consists of  1 4x8ft x approx 12 inch height, 4 2x6ft by 12" beds, 1 4x5 ft and 1 4x4ft bed to start with.  (see attached pics.   So far I have all wood cut for the 4 x8, the 4x5 and 1 2x6 bed.

As you can see from pic the challenge is to notch each end for corner supports since I am putting bark side on inside, some are 8-10" wide and band saw has a 6" clearance.  Since I am going with a live edge on the top board I have to cut bottom board flat on both sides for a good match with the live edge top board.  I will add more pics as I get the beds assembled.

Question:  I have this thought that if I build a surfacing sled for my router I can take enough wood off the bark side of a couple of the wide slabs so I can use them for special projects.  Thinking I would need a surface bit, (router is old B&D and 1/4" shaft.  I don't buy a lot of router bits, is there a better brand I should look for?

Woodhaven sells sled kits and the bits you are looking for.  They may offer only 1/2” shank however.

 I've had good luck with Whiteside bits, but I'm not sure you're going to find what you need in 1/4" shank. Bosh makes a fairly in expensive 1/2" shank router, if you are in the market.