RE: Wood as a butchering board?
Ply-wood is full of glue! A no-no know doubt! Any hardwood works, maple, birch, oak, etc...., but it should be treated with a non-toxic sealer!
I personally use a 16x16 Teflon cutting board that I bought at Walmart for 10 bucks!!! I also use a 10 dollar rapala fillet knife that I bought at Walmart!