USDA Stressing The Importance Of Using Local Firewood

Do you need firewood? Whether you need it for hunting or camping this fall, or into the winter months, or perhaps you just need fuel to heat your home, USDA is stressing that it's important you: "Burn it where you buy it."

Agriculture Department Undersecretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Dudley Hoskins said purchasing or cutting that firewood near where you plan to burn it will help prevent the transport of invasive plant pests and diseases. Hoskins added when its time to make that purchase, ensure the firewood is local.

"Please buy firewood that is certified and heat treated. And what that process will do will ensure that none of the insects or species that might have otherwise been in that firewood, they will no longer be a risk," he noted.

Hoskins added wood that meets these requirements can be identified by a USDA certified shield or stamp, is the only type of firewood considered safe for transport.

Don't Transport Pests This Fall

“Healthy forests depend on everyone doing their part to stop invasive pests,” said Forest Service Chief Schultz. “Buying firewood where you burn it is one of the simplest ways people can protect the places they love, from neighborhood parks to our national forests. Local firewood keeps harmful insects from hitchhiking into new areas, helping us safeguard wildlife habitat, outdoor recreation, and the communities that rely on America’s trees.”