USDA Has Designated October National Firewood Month
The department is urging Americans to source firewood locally to combat the spread of destructive, invasive insects.
Updated on Oct. 3, 2026 in Forecasts
Live Poll
Do you make an effort to buy firewood locally to help prevent the spread of pests?
The USDA has officially designated October as National Firewood Month to raise awareness about the risks of transporting invasive pests. Federal officials are advising the public to purchase firewood near the site where it will be burned to protect forests.
Why it matters
Moving untreated firewood can transport invasive insects and plant diseases hundreds of miles into new regions. These pests threaten the health of domestic forests across the United States.
Invasive pests like the Spotted Lanternfly, spongy moth, and Asian longhorned beetle can be transported hundreds of miles through the movement of untreated wood. Federal and state quarantines are currently in place to restrict the movement of firewood in many regions.
The players
USDA
The United States Department of Agriculture is a federal executive department responsible for developing and executing laws related to farming, forestry, and food safety.
The details
The USDA emphasizes that individuals should buy heat-treated firewood or gather wood on-site when permitted to minimize ecological damage. By sourcing wood locally, residents can prevent the introduction of foreign insects into new environments.
Timeline
October 2026 marks the official designation of National Firewood Month.
Seasonal Patterns
This awareness campaign aligns with the annual fall spike in wood burning and aligns with the broader USDA's Hungry Pests program. It marks a shift from reactive quarantine enforcement toward proactive public compliance regarding forest health.
Consumers should source firewood from local vendors to avoid violating regional quarantine regulations. If you travel, never bring your own wood to campsites or cabins unless it is certified as heat-treated.
The takeaway
The easiest way to protect local trees is to buy and burn firewood within the same county or region where it was harvested. Always look for heat-treated labels when purchasing wood for fireplaces or outdoor fire pits.
Further reading
Learn more about local environmental safety protocols in our United States Forecasts.
More information
For tips on stopping the spread of invasive insects, visit the USDA Hungry Pests website.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KTLO.
Live Poll
Do you make an effort to buy firewood locally to help prevent the spread of pests?
