Protect California’s Forests – Buy and Burn Local Firewood

Most of us have fires to warm our homes or ourselves as we socialize around a campfire with little regard for the origin of the wood we are using. However, as invasive pests and diseases are on the rise it is more important than ever to be cautious about the firewood we purchase.

Pests and diseases such as the Goldspotted Oak Borer, Emerald Ash Borer, and Sudden Oak Death can travel on firewood long distances, endangering previously unexposed areas, and potentially causing catastrophic die offs of trees and plants with little or no natural resistance to the intruder. As pests and diseases are often not easily identified on firewood, it is best to assume all wood is a potential risk. Choosing to buy and burn local wood is an easy solution, assuring you aren’t part of the problem. By keeping wood within its area of origin, you can be sure you are keeping any pests and pathogens already present in the area local as well.

The health of your forests, campgrounds, and your own backyards depends on you.  For more information, go to the Don’t Move Firewood website at http://www.dontmovefirewood.org/.

Photo Source: Lorin Lima, UC Cooperative Extension - San Diego