New Jersey Resources
The New Jersey Forest Service and New Jersey Department of Agriculture encourage the sustainable management and harvesting of trees as a renewable resource for firewood use. To accomplish this tenant of sustainability, consumers are encouraged to use locally sourced firewood that was cut within 50 miles or BUY IT, WHERE YOU BURN IT! On state lands, recreationists are encouraged to buy firewood at the state park or forest where you intend to stay (use the search feature above to locate).
New Jersey tree and forest resources are harmed every year by invasive tree pests like the spongy moth, emerald ash borer, and spotted lanternfly, all of which can spread via the movement of firewood. So, remember DON’T MOVE FIREWOOD! Additionally, to eliminate insects and the problems associated with them in firewood, remember to: harvest wood during winter months when most insects are inactive; cut the wood into small logs so it can dry quickly; store wood outside, aboveground, and away from the house; keep wood covered while still enabling air flow; and never spray with pesticides as burning wood with chemicals is a health hazard.
Remember, wood burns most efficiently when its moisture content is below 20%. Seasoned or dry wood is much lighter, starts easier, is safer to use, and produces more energy. To season, wood should be split and stacked in a sunny location for the duration of at least one summer, or six months, for maximum efficiency. Seasoned wood is also generally darker, has cracks in the end grain and sounds hollow when hit with another piece of wood.
In particular, the Jersey Grown firewood program addresses environmental, economic and energy concerns facing our state and country. It promotes the availability of locally-produced, high-quality wood products for consumers and supports local economies; reduces the risk of spreading injurious pests and diseases; supports a sustainable, renewable energy resource; and protects the health and safety of our urban, suburban and rural forests.
For more information regarding quarantine areas and firewood regulations, please visit: www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/planthealth/import-information/firewood.
