Moving firewood might seem harmless, but it’s a major way invasive pests and tree diseases spread across regions. These uninvited hitchhikers can devastate forests, disrupt ecosystems, and cost billions in damage. Let’s explore why moving firewood is such a problem, supported by real examples and statistics, and how you can help protect the environment by keeping firewood local.
Why Moving Firewood is a Problem
When transporting firewood, you could unknowingly spread pests and diseases hidden inside the wood. These invaders thrive in new areas without natural predators, killing trees and altering ecosystems.
Real Damage
- Emerald Ash Borer: Since its discovery in the U.S. in 2002, this beetle has killed over 100 million ash trees, causing more than $12 billion in damages and removal costs.
- Asian Longhorned Beetle: First found in New York in 1996, it’s now threatening maple, birch, and other hardwoods across several states. Eradication efforts have cost over $600 million so far.
- Oak Wilt: This fungal disease has spread rapidly in the Midwest and Texas, killing thousands of oak trees annually.
Once pests establish themselves in a new area, their impacts can be irreversible.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Economic Cost
According to the USDA, managing invasive species costs the U.S. over $120 billion annually. Much of this is spent on removing dead trees, replanting forests, and preventing further spread. For example:
- Cities like Detroit and Chicago have spent millions removing and replacing trees affected by the emerald ash borer.
- The maple syrup industry in the Northeast, valued at over $100 million annually, is at risk from pests like the Asian longhorned beetle.
Environmental Damage
Invasive pests and diseases don’t just kill trees—they destroy entire habitats. When trees die, wildlife loses shelter and food, soil erosion increases, and local ecosystems become unbalanced.
What You Can Do
Buy Local, Burn Local
Buying firewood near where you’ll use it is one of the easiest ways to prevent the spread of pests. For instance, research shows that pests can travel up to 200 miles when firewood is moved. Keeping firewood within a 50-mile radius significantly reduces this risk.
Look for Certified Firewood
Kiln-dried or USDA-certified firewood is treated to kill pests and is safe to transport. Certification programs, like the USDA’s Heat Treatment Program, ensure firewood is free of invasive species.
Leave Unused Firewood Behind
Bringing firewood home from a campsite or vacation can introduce pests to your area. Studies show that pests can remain hidden in wood for up to two years, even if the wood looks dry and dead.
State and Federal Regulations
Laws regarding firewood transport vary, but most states have strict rules:
- California: Prohibits untreated firewood from entering the state.
- New York: Firewood must be sourced within 50 miles of where it’s burned.
- Michigan: Enforces quarantine zones to stop the spread of the emerald ash borer.
- Federal Guidelines: The USDA regulates the interstate movement of firewood, particularly from quarantine areas.
Failure to comply can result in fines, confiscation of firewood, or even legal action.
See firewood transport rules for each state.
How to Identify Safe Firewood
Kiln-Dried
Wood dried in a kiln is heated to kill pests and reduce moisture content. Look for packaging labeled as “kiln-dried” or USDA-certified.
Seasoned Firewood
Properly seasoned firewood is dried naturally for at least 6–12 months, with cracks visible at the ends and a lighter weight. While safer than green wood, seasoned firewood can still harbor pests if untreated.
Supporting Statistics
- According to the USDA, 41% of forest pest invasions in the U.S. are caused by human activities like moving firewood.
- A study by Michigan State University found that moving firewood just 30 miles increases the risk of spreading pests by 23%.
- The emerald ash borer alone has caused $25 billion in economic losses related to tree mortality, removal, and replacement.
360 Key Takeaways
- Moving firewood spreads invasive pests like the emerald ash borer, killing millions of trees and causing billions in damages.
- Buy firewood locally or use certified kiln-dried wood to prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
- Always check state and federal regulations before transporting firewood across regions.
- Leaving unused firewood behind when camping or traveling significantly reduces the risk of introducing pests to new areas.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to protecting our forests and ecosystems, keeping firewood local is one of the simplest yet most impactful steps you can take. Think twice before transporting wood, whether camping, heating your home, or enjoying a backyard fire. By doing so, you’re helping preserve the beauty and health of forests for future generations.