Sitting around a campfire, listening to a friend strum a guitar, and roasting marshmallows is an experience that's hard to beat. We love a good campfire as much as the next guy. But, to have a fire you need wood, and that’s where things can get more complicated.
Why Shouldn’t We Move Firewood?
Many areas forbid transporting firewood. At first glance, filling the back of the truck with fallen trees seems harmless enough, but unless you are careful, you may be inadvertently transporting tree-killing insects to an area with trees that were previously untouched by this invasive species. Insects alone aren’t a problem. Over time, a tree will naturally build up defenses against native species. But, when a non-native species announces its arrival, it upsets the balance of the existing ecosystem. Without natural protection, a tree is susceptible to becoming infected with disease.
Why are non-native insects and diseases so much worse than native ones?
Once non-native insects are transported to a new area, it becomes very difficult to eradicate them. It’s much better to keep the foreign invaders away then it is to try to control them once they begin to multiply.
What is meant by local firewood?
By “local”, we mean the wood came from the a nearby forest. Keeping wood near the area that it grew helps to alleviate the spread of invasive species.
My firewood has no bugs or holes – is it ok to transport?
When transporting firewood, it is best to play it safe and keep it local. Although the wood may look clean, we can’t always see minuscule insect eggs or fungus spores on wood. If your firewood is FDA certified heat-treated, then yes, it is ok to transport. To learn more about FDA certified wood, click here.
Can I cut wood from my backyard and take it camping?
While this may seem like a great idea—it usually isn’t. When trees are exposed to non-native fungus or insects, it can take years before they succumb to the new threat. It often takes a few years for a harmful species to become a problem. Trees typically don’t show any outward signs of an insect problem until it’s too late and they can’t fight the harmful organism anymore.
Meanwhile, the insects are reproducing and spreading to nearby trees. Once it begins to pervade the surrounding trees, it is no longer easy to contain. It’s not worth taking the risk. It’s better to use the wood from your yard in your backyard firepit and buy wood as close to where you are camping as possible, or else use FDA certified firewood.
Where can I find out more about firewood information in Michigan?
The best place to find updated information about firewood in Michigan is here: https://www.dontmovefirewood.org/map/michigan/.
All in all, buying local firewood once you arrive at your campsite is a much better idea than bringing wood that may cause ecological problems down the road. With our low prices, supporting your local business has never been easier. If we all do our part, the U.P. can remain “God’s country” for years to come.
Looking for FDA certified wood to bring camping? Call 906-250-6178
to order your bundle today.