Whether used to heat your home or build a campfire, firewood is a must-have item for millions of Americans. However, firewood also presents a very real threat to the Nation's forests. Invasive species including the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), the emerald ash borer (EAB), and gypsy moth can be spread into new areas of the country on firewood. To help stop the spread of these pests, APHIS has established quarantines that limit the movement of firewood and other host materials. Some States have also adopted regulations limiting the movement of firewood. In addition, APHIS has implemented public awareness campaigns and other efforts in known infested areas. However, these actions alone are not enough; it is up to all of us to contribute to the preservation of our Nation's urban, suburban and rural landscapes by committing to not move firewood. By “burning where you buy it” you can be sure that you're not moving these damaging forest pests into new areas.
To address the risk of interstate forest pest movement on firewood, APHIS work with State, federal, industry, and private sector organizations to coordinate regulatory, voluntary and outreach strategies to help limit the inadvertent spread of forest pests. Through the National Firewood Task Force, APHIS, the National Plant Board, National Association of State Foresters, U.S. Forest Service, and the National Parks Service developed a set of recommendations for State and Tribal officials to help combat this threat.
Invasive species can also move across international borders in firewood. In fact, the movement of firewood into the United States from all foreign countries, including Canada, is prohibited unless it has been properly treated.