Iowa’s cold winters make firewood a practical and affordable heating source for homes, fireplaces, and outdoor fire pits. With its abundance of hardwood forests, the state provides excellent firewood options to keep you warm and cozy through the colder months.
Top Firewood Picks in Iowa
1. Oak
Oak is one of the best firewoods in Iowa due to its density and long burn time. Red oak and white oak are commonly available throughout the state.
- Why it’s great: Burns hot and slow, with excellent coals for long-lasting heat.
- BTU Rating: 24-26 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Abundant in Iowa’s forests, especially in central and southern regions.
2. Hickory
Hickory is a premium firewood that provides intense heat and a long burn, making it ideal for home heating and smoking meats.
- Why it’s great: High heat output, slow burn, and a great aroma.
- BTU Rating: 27-30 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Found across Iowa’s rural areas and hardwood forests.
3. Ash
Ash is a versatile firewood choice that burns well and is easy to split. It’s known for producing steady heat with minimal smoke.
- Why it’s great: Burns efficiently, even when slightly green, and seasons quickly.
- BTU Rating: 20-22 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Widely available throughout Iowa but declining due to the emerald ash borer.
4. Maple
Maple is a reliable firewood option that burns cleanly and provides moderate heat. Sugar and red maple are the most common varieties in Iowa.
- Why it’s great: Easy to handle, burns steadily, and produces minimal ash.
- BTU Rating: 22-25 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Central and northern Iowa.
5. Locust (Black Locust)
Black locust is a dense hardwood with one of the highest heat outputs, making it ideal for Iowa’s colder winters.
- Why it’s great: Extremely hot burn, long-lasting coals, and rot-resistant.
- BTU Rating: 26-28 million BTUs per cord.
- Where to find it: Scattered in southern and central Iowa.
Firewood Regulations in Iowa
1. Cutting Firewood
- Permits: A permit is required to cut firewood on public lands. Contact the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) for details.
- Allowed Trees: Dead or fallen trees are typically permitted for harvesting.
2. Transporting Firewood
- Pest Concerns: Iowa enforces strict rules to prevent the spread of invasive pests like the emerald ash borer. Transporting untreated firewood across county or state lines is restricted.
- Key Rule: Always buy and burn firewood locally.
3. Burning Restrictions
- Air Quality: Burn bans may be issued during droughts or high-pollution days. Check with local authorities before lighting a fire.
Firewood Costs in Iowa
- Hardwoods: Oak, hickory, and locust range from $250-$400 per cord for seasoned wood.
- Softwoods: Less dense woods, like pine, are less common and cost around $150-$200 per cord.
- Delivery Fees: Delivery costs vary by region, typically adding $50-$100 to the total price.
Firewood Storage Tips for Iowa
- Protect from Moisture: Stack firewood off the ground on pallets or racks and cover the top with a tarp to prevent moisture from snow or rain.
- Seasoning: Allow firewood to season for at least 6-12 months for optimal burning.
- Pest Prevention: Store firewood away from your home to reduce the risk of attracting pests like termites.
Fire Safety Tips
- Burn only seasoned wood to minimize creosote buildup in chimneys.
- Avoid burning treated or painted wood, as it releases toxic chemicals.
- Regularly clean and inspect chimneys and wood stoves to ensure safe use.
Environmental Considerations
- Sustainability: Focus on harvesting dead or fallen trees to preserve Iowa’s forest ecosystems.
- Local Sourcing: Always use locally sourced firewood to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
Iowa’s forests provide excellent firewood options, from the long-burning oak and hickory to the efficient ash and maple. Choosing seasoned, locally sourced firewood and following proper storage and burning practices ensures safe and efficient fires throughout the winter months.