Alder sounds like it would be a fine choice if all the websites I see selling it in your area are right. Of course I think we tend to use wood that's local and tend to "decide" it's the best choice. I paid $70 for a rick of pecan split and seasoned but it's local to this area so it's purty cheap. The alder for sale on the first place I read about was about a $1.50 a pound, that might be for rich folks who like to experiment with exotic wood choices, I'm sure you living in Washington state where it's from you can do a lot better. I vote you give it a try and let us know how it turned out.
Mike