Minnesota is known for its frigid winters, making firewood a vital resource for heating homes and fueling outdoor gatherings. For those looking to buy high-quality firewood, it’s crucial to choose certified producers who meet rigorous treatment standards to prevent the spread of invasive pests and ensure safety. This guide highlights the top certified firewood producers in Minnesota and explains what MDA certification means.
Minnesota Certified Firewood Producers
Here’s a list of the best certified firewood producers across Minnesota, along with their contact information:
1. Holtz Firewood
- Address: 11658 State Highway 238, Royalton, MN 56373
- Phone: 612-600-8513
- Email: [email protected]
2. Jay’s Tree Care and Firewood
- Address: 8253 Imperial Road, Royalton, MN 56373
- Phone: 612-245-2663
- Email: [email protected]
3. Minnesota Firewood LLC
- Address: 18691 233rd Street, Little Falls, MN 56345
- Phone: 800-893-9090
- Email: [email protected]
4. MN Environmental Solutions
- Address: 5581 Saint Louis River Road, Hermantown, MN 55810
- Phone: 218-464-3681
5. Moonlight Firewood
- Address: 905 18th Street SE, Owatonna, MN 55060
- Phone: 507-475-1985
6. Northstar Hardwoods, Inc.
- Address: 1087 State Highway 6 NE, Outing, MN 56662
- Phone: 218-792-5501
7. Paul’s Fireplace Wood Inc.
- Address: 17502 Heron Road, Little Falls, MN 56345
- Phone: 800-FIREWOOD or 320-632-3352
- Email: [email protected]
8. Price Firewood
- Address: 2715 Big Lake Road, Cloquet, MN 55720
- Phone: 218-879-6137
9. Pro Cut Firewood
- Address: 2660 North Broadway Avenue, Rochester, MN 55906
- Phone: 507-280-7780
- Email: [email protected]
10. Stoked Firewood
- Address: 5102 South Cant Road, Duluth, MN 55804
- Phone: 218-380-7213
- Email: [email protected]
11. Sunset Firewood Company
- Address: 3128 Lilac Street, Jenkins, MN 56472
- Email: [email protected]
12. TSL Firewood
- Address: 11818 US Highway 169, Milaca, MN 56353
- Phone: 320-362-0979
- Email: [email protected]
13. Wood Chuckers Firewood LLC
- Address: 9545 Ahles Road, St. Cloud, MN 56301
- Phone: 320-267-7029
- Email: [email protected]
What MDA Certification Means
The Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) certification ensures firewood producers meet strict standards to provide safe, pest-free firewood.
- Heat Treatment Certified:
Producers operate kilns that heat firewood to a minimum core temperature of 140°F for 60 minutes, effectively eliminating pests like the emerald ash borer and other invasive species. - Kiln Dry Certified:
This certification applies to firewood treated in a kiln to achieve a specific moisture content and temperature, typically for wood pieces no thicker than three inches. While primarily for lumber, this method is also used for kindling and firewood of appropriate size.
These certifications ensure that firewood is safe for transport and complies with state and federal regulations, preventing the spread of invasive species.
Benefits of Buying Certified Firewood
- Environmental Protection: Prevents the spread of pests and diseases that harm forests.
- Safe to Transport: Certified firewood can legally cross state lines or quarantine zones.
- Efficient Burning: Kiln-dried firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and with less smoke.
- Peace of Mind: MDA-certified firewood meets the highest standards for quality and safety.
360 Key Takeaways
- Minnesota has a wide range of certified firewood producers offering heat-treated and kiln-dried wood.
- MDA certification ensures firewood is pest-free, environmentally safe, and ready for transport.
- Supporting certified local suppliers helps protect Minnesota’s forests and ensures compliance with state laws.
FAQs About Certified Firewood in Minnesota
1. What is certified firewood?
Certified firewood is wood that has been treated, typically through heat or kiln drying, to eliminate invasive pests and pathogens. It meets specific state and federal standards to ensure it is safe for transport and use.
2. Why is certified firewood important in Minnesota?
Minnesota’s forests are vulnerable to invasive pests like the emerald ash borer and oak wilt. Certified firewood helps prevent the spread of these threats and protects the state’s ecosystems.
3. Can I transport uncertified firewood in Minnesota?
Transporting uncertified firewood more than 10 miles from its source is prohibited in state parks and forests. Certified firewood is the only legal option for transport across state lines or long distances.
4. How can I tell if firewood is certified?
Look for labels or seals indicating that the firewood is “MDA Certified,” “Heat Treated,” or “Kiln Dried.” These labels usually include details about the treatment process and compliance standards.
5. Is certified firewood more expensive?
Certified firewood is often slightly more expensive due to the treatment process, but its benefits, including cleaner burning, pest control, and legal compliance, make it a worthwhile investment.
6. Where can I buy certified firewood in Minnesota?
You can purchase certified firewood from suppliers like Holtz Firewood, Jay’s Tree Care, and Minnesota Firewood LLC. Many certified producers also offer delivery services.
7. What happens if I use uncertified firewood in a restricted area?
Using uncertified firewood in restricted areas, such as state parks, can result in fines and penalties. Always check local regulations before bringing firewood into new locations.
8. How does heat treatment work for firewood certification?
Heat treatment involves heating the wood to a core temperature of at least 140°F for 60 minutes. This process kills pests and pathogens, ensuring the firewood is safe for use and transport.
9. What are the environmental benefits of certified firewood?
Certified firewood reduces the risk of spreading invasive species, which can devastate local forests and ecosystems. It also supports sustainable forestry practices.
10. Can I sell firewood without certification in Minnesota?
You can sell firewood locally within certain limits, but if you plan to transport it across quarantine zones or state lines, it must be certified to comply with regulations.