The show is based on the Annie Proulx novel of the same name. She's a respected author, best known for "The Shipping News".
I've read "Barkskins", and the series appears to be based only on the first part, as the book goes to the present. I like the book.
So, the source material is sound, but it does not guarantee a good TV series, as the movie version of The Shipping News did not live up to the book (although I still liked it).
I'll watch, because I'm a sucker for any show with an historical setting.
Besides, unlike so many US shows, its set in FRENCH Canada.