I turn oak all the time. Mostly red oak but I like to turn white oak
when I can get it. Oak does tend to split if it is not handled with
"kid gloves."

Once you have the tree down keep it in the longest logs possible until
you are ready to process it. Keep it out of the direct sunlight if
possible. Keep the ends covered if possible with woodchips or
something to keep the ends from checking as they start to dry.

When you start to cut the logs up into "bite sized" lengths get the
center/pith out ASAP and then seal the ends with Anchorseal or
something to slow the drying down. This will buy you some time while
you are deciding what to do next.

If you are turning bowls then rough turn them sooner than later. Then
seal them again with either more Anchorseal or paper bags or wood
chips. Anything to slow the drying process down will help keep
cracking to a minimum.

Even at that some pieces may crack but the rest will make good
turnings.

Ted J
thelatentlog.com