Green wood contains from 40 to 110 wt% moisture (dry basis) and must be dried before use

Question:

Green wood contains from 40 to 110 wt% moisture (dry basis) and must be dried before use to just under its equilibrium-moisture content when in the final environment. This moisture content is usually in the range from 6 to 15 wt% (dry basis). Why is it important to dry the wood, and what is the best way to do it so as to avoid distortion, cracks, splits, and checks?