Washington asks campers not to move firewood

OLYMPIA – Campers and outdoor enthusiasts in Washington are being asked not to move firewood and instead buy it where they burn it this camping season. It’s a way to keep invasive species in check.

While packing firewood from home and taking it to a camping site may sound resourceful, the Washington Invasive Species Council said campers could unintentionally move invasive insects to new parts of the state or to a whole new state entirely.

Invasive pests can be found in firewood at all stages of their life cycles. Humans often carry insects greater distances than they can fly or crawl on their own.

Campers are encouraged to call ahead to find local wood dealers near camping destinations and burn all the firewood before leaving the campsite.

Photo via Washington Invasive Species Council

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Elkhorn Media Group

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