The summer is almost upon us, which means camping for many people. Campfires and camping go hand in hand. Before you purchase firewood for your campfire this summer keep in mind that many tree-killing pests are transported by hitchhiking on infested wood. Prevent the spread of harmful diseases and insects by following these steps:
- Purchase firewood from trees harvested locally.
- Don’t move firewood from place to place.
- When camping away from home, purchase firewood at a location near the campsite. Ask a Park Ranger for recommendations for finding locally sourced firewood.
- Spread the word to friends and family!
Invasive insects and diseases can devastate forests by killing thousands of trees in just a few short years. Many new infestations of tree-killing insects and diseases are traced back to campgrounds and parks because infected firewood is inadvertently brought to a new location. Illinois state regulations actually prohibit the transportation of firewood from out of state. Do your part by preventing infested firewood from entering new territory. Click here for more information.