Firewood
Firewood is a raw forest product that is widely utilized and moved throughout the United States with relatively limited consideration of the potential pests within or the associated risks.
Tree-killing insects and diseases can hide in firewood. These pests can't move far on their own, but when people move firewood they can be transported hundreds of miles into new areas. New infestations can damage or destroy our forests, lower property values, and have economic and ecological repercussions in the long-term.
Even if firewood doesn’t show signs of insects, such as holes in wood or sawdust, or show signs of disease, such as mushrooms or discoloration, doesn’t mean they are not there. Please remember: Buy it where you’ll burn it. Buy firewood from a source close to where you will be burning it to prevent the spread of firewood and accidental transport of insects and diseases.
Moving firewood long distances can unintentionally bring dangerous pests and diseases to your favorite campgrounds. Please help protect forests and trees. You can make a difference. Buy where you burn! Use the Firewood Scout to help you find certified firewood vendors.
Firewood vendors can request to be included on the vendor list maintained by FirewoodScout.org. Vendors can enter their information on that website under “Add A Business” and may include information on whether they carry heat-treated or kiln dried firewood if applicable. Division of Forestry staff review vendor requests to update the list on Firewood Scout.
Firewood producers can be certified to produce heat-treated firewood, which helps reduce the risk of insects or diseases being transported in firewood. Information on certification for heat-treated firewood can be found on the website for the Tennessee Division of Consumer and Industry Services.