As winter approaches, so does the season for bonfires and warming up with indoor fireplaces.  This time of year, it is important for us to stress that you never move firewood.  What are the effects of moving firewood?  How can this be damaging to your surrounding trees and wildlife?  We will answer all of those questions and more in this concise mini-article.

Image Courtesy of www.lenexa.com

The “Never Move Firewood” rule began as a result of the damaging effects brought on by the Emerald Ash Borer beetle, or the EAB.  The EAB is an invasive bug, small enough to fit on the head of a penny, and difficult to track and detect in nature.  When you move firewood, you are transporting the EAB beetle, therefore spreading it in new regions, ultimately endangering more trees.

The larvae of the EAB beetle tunnels under the bark of the tree, disrupting the tree’s system of transporting food and water; this starves and eventually kills the tree.  Tens of millions of trees have died due to the effects of the EAB beetle, which can now be found in various states, such as New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and many more.

To prevent the transfer of the EAB beetle and further damage to our trees, we ask that you burn local firewood, versus purchasing wood which has been transported from another area.  Another great way to prevent the transfer of this invasive insect, is to purchase kiln-dried firewood!

Stay tuned for more seasonal tips regarding the health of your trees!