Recent concerns and problems with invasive species causing damage to forests in some parts of the United States has resulted in some states restricting or banning the transportation of firewood because it can harbor invasive pests.

Wisconsin won’t allow any out of state firewood in their state parks because of problems with the Emerald Ash Borer and only allows in-state firewood that has been transported 50 miles or less. If you don’t live in Wisconsin and are planning on staying at a Wisconsin state park, leave your firewood at home and purchase it locally. If you live in Wisconsin and live more than 50 miles from the state campground you’re going to stay at, you also need to leave your firewood at home and purchase it locally. There is plenty of firewood for sale near the campgrounds and also inside the campgrounds. Wisconsin has a firewood hotline set up that offers more information: 1-877-303-WOOD (9663).

Maryland also has firewood restrictions in place because of Emerald Ash Borer damage and concerns of further infestation. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has prohibited the importation of all personal firewood into DNR owned and managed properties. If someone inadventently brings firewood to a DNR property they will be required to immediately burn it. DNR approved firewood is available locally.

Minnesota is asking people to leave their firewood at home and purchase it locally although, at the time I’m writing this, I’m not aware of any regulations requiring people to follow the guideline in Minnesota unlike in Maryland or Wisconsin where the regulation is in effect and is being enforced.

In addition, although no national bann is in effect, the Union of Concerned Scientists is asking people to sign a pledge online and not transport firewood in an effort to protect our forests and woodlands from non native pests and species so that everyone can continue to enjoy them and not see them destroyed.

So, don’t worry about finding room in your vehicle or RV storage area for firewood. Use that space for something else and buy your firewood when you get to your desination.