USDA Forest Service Dakota Prairie Grasslands Issues Firewood Transportation Restrictions Order
Contact Information: DPG Public Affairs sm.fs.r1_dpg@usda.gov
BISMARCK, ND, October 8, 2024 – The USDA Forest Service - Dakota Prairie Grasslands (DPG) issued a Firewood Transportation Restriction Order for all National Forest System lands administered by the organization effective 10/7/2024.
The order directs firewood to originate from the state where the grassland is located, and includes on-site dead and downed tree materials, certified heat-treated firewood (proof of purchase must be provided), or manufactured logs made from extruded or pressed sawdust. The order outlines additional requirements.
The aim of the restriction directive is to protect national forest property and natural resources against invasive insect species, including the Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) and other pests like the pine beetle. Moving firewood over distances is a method of introducing hazardous pests and diseases to new locales. In August, the Ash tree killing EAB was detected in LaMoure County, about fifty miles west of the Sheyenne National Grassland.
To read the official Firewood Transportation Restrictions Order or find more helpful DPG information, please visit our Alerts page.
Additional questions may be directed to the McKenzie Ranger District at 701-842-8500, the Medora Ranger District at 701-227-7800, the Sheyenne Ranger District at 701-404-8950, the Grand River Ranger District at 605-374-3592, or the Dakota Prairie Grasslands Supervisor's Office at 701-989-7300.
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