As we move into the height of the camping, vacationing, and barbecuing season, the state of Vermont is urging residents to use local firewood.
For the sake of forest health, wood should not be moved more than 50 miles from its point of origin.
“Firewood can harbor harmful diseases or pests, which could spread when it is relocated,” according to State Survey Coordinator Emilie Inoue, with the Agency of Agriculture.
Tree-killing insects and diseases can be devastating not only to forest health and habitats, but also to the economy, destroying potential timber trees, degrading property values, and requiring costly recovery efforts.
“If you're traveling to a campground or vacation home, plan to get your wood nearby,” recommends Michael Snyder, Commissioner of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation.
In order to prevent the spread of invasive pests, Vermont State Parks only permit firewood that comes from within a 50-mile radius. “Our visitors appreciate Vermont's forests and we're glad they've been supportive of this effort to minimize spread of pests in firewood,” said Snyder.
“Pests and diseases can be invisible to the naked eye, so you might not notice any signs of infestation on your firewood,” said Inoue. “But that doesn't mean they aren't present. That is why it is so important not to move firewood, regardless of whether or not it looks OK.”
To learn more about the risks associated with moving firewood long distances, visit the VT Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation's website http://www.anr.state.vt.us/fpr/firewood/index.cfm.
Additional information is available on the national “Don't Move Firewood” website, http://www.dontmovefirewood.org.