Use Local Firewood

The beauty and productivity of North Carolina's forests is threatened by non-native plants, animals and diseases that can make it to the state in many ways. One common but often overlooked way that these invasive species make it into the state's parks, forests, and private campgrounds is through the movement of firewood.

Some invasive insects, such as the European gypsy moth can lay eggs on pieces of firewood. Others, such as the emerald ash borer, Sirex woodwasp and the Asian longhorned and redbay ambrosia beetles spend parts of their life-cycle within wood and can emerge from firewood as adults ready to infest new trees. Some invasive pathogens, which can lead to diseases such as sudden oak death, may also be present on firewood.

You can help prevent the spread of these dangerous invasive species by using local firewood for campfires. A good rule of thumb is to burn wood within a 50 mile radius of it's origin. Additionally, you should never bring firewood into North Carolina from another state. If firewood has inadvertently been brought into the state, or has been moved long distances within the state, make sure it is burned as soon as possible. Never leave unused firewood behind at the burn site.

The use of local firewood is an important factor in preventing the spread of potentially devastating invasive species to our state's forests. Please keep this in mind as you prepare for your outdoor recreation activities: The health of our forests depends on it!