DEC Contact: Benning DeLaMater (518) 402-8000 May 22, 2019
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DEC Reminds Campers to Use Local Firewood While Enjoying the OutdoorsState’s Firewood Regulation Remains in Effect to Protect New York Forests |
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With the start of camping season underway, Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos today reminded campers that the New York State firewood transportation regulation is still in effect. Untreated firewood may contain invasive pests that kill trees, and to protect New York's forests, untreated firewood should not be moved more than 50 miles from its source of origin.
Firewood that meets the state's heat treatment standard (160 degrees F core temperature for 75 minutes) and is labeled "New York-Approved Heat Treated/Pest Free," can be moved without restriction. Heat-treating to this standard has been proven to kill insects and diseases that may be in firewood. Kiln-dried only means the wood was heated to dry it out so it will burn well, but it may not have reached 160 degrees F for 75 minutes. Purchasers of heat-treated firewood are encouraged to look for the appropriate label indicating the wood meets the standard. Quarantines for individual invasive species, such as oak wilt and the Asian longhorned beetle, may further restrict the transport of firewood in specific areas. As quarantines are lifted, expanded or tightened, the firewood regulation will continue to remain in place. For more information on Firewood and Invasive Insects, visit DEC's website contact DEC’s Forest Health Division at foresthealth@dec.ny.gov. |
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