In talking to some carvers at Chazfest, seems that some have not heard of spalted maple and what it can do to you. So here is some info I gathered from post long, long ago, hope it helps.

Spalted wood, wood that has wavy black lines running through the grain, which is a part of the decaying process. It is seen particularly in maple and is a highly desired "look" for wood turners as the lines make beautiful patterns in goblets, candlesticks, etc. The only problem is that these lines are a fungus or mold that becomes airborne when working such wood with power tools and are inhaled by the woodworker especially in a closed shop. This mold will stay alive in your lungs and can kill you. Most likely the doctors won't know what it is unless they know the patient works wood.
A carver who got it and wanted to warn fellow carvers wrote an article in chip chats about the disease. He's dead now from it and every year they re-print the article. It's serious and dangerous stuff.
http://www.thewoodbox.com/data/wood/spaltedinfo.htm
"Once the wood has been cut and kiln dried, the fungi can no longer grow, and the spalting process will stop. Airflow, wood moisture content above 25% and air temperature between 60 and 80 degrees F. are all necessary for spalting."also "Spalted wood may still contain spores, therefore it should always be worked and sanded only when wearing a good dust mask or respirator, and using a dust collector.
There is medical evidence that substances from decaying wood are a health threat and some allergic reactions and serious lung diseases have been traced to spores and fungi that inhabit rotting wood. "Here's a couple of "spalt your own" pages
http://w3.one.net/~ovwg/Tips Spalting.htmlhttp:
//www.woodweb.com/knowledge_base/Tips_for_creating_spalted_maple.html

Thanks Doug,

I had never heard of Spalted wood either. I happened to be working a piece and Amy pointed it out to me. Already having lung issues, I'll be more careful in the furture!

Here is a pic of a Spalted Maple Mushroom, it is dangeous stuff. I have seen even pine with much spalt in it, and mask up right away. Walnut is another one I mask up for...Take it easy Ed and all! Going to carve at the corn maze...

www.woodbin.com/ref/etc/wood_toxicity_table.htm Here is a web site that has some great info. There are many more sites worth checking out. Google wood toxicity and you will have enough reason to where your respirator, Thanks for the reminder Doug

Thank Doug
I've worked with a few pieces 0f it and din't know that. Cheers, Rick