The effort to slow the spread of forest pests and diseases by transporting firewood gets ramped up next week.
The DNR's Coleen Robinson King says firewood restrictions close the allowable purchase circle even tighter...
"....as of June 1, the firewood allowed on state-managed properties will need to come from within 10 miles of that property. That means it should be harvested within 10 miles of that property...."
The former restricted zone was 25 miles.
Robinson King says a whole host of problems come to the Northwoods in firewood from affected areas....
".....Emerald Ash Borer, Oak Wilt, Gypsy Moth, Dutch Elm disease, Beech Bark Disease, all kinds of tree pests and diseases and even some seeds from invasive plants tend to easily transport on firewood without us even knowing we're moving it around......"
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The only exception is firewood certified by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. Certified wood can be moved anywhere as it has been inspected and cleared of problems. It will be labeled with state certification. More on the changes are on the DNR website under firewood.
