The spread of invasive pests often has serious economic
consequences, according to Kelly Estes, coordinator of the
Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey (CAPS), at the Illinois Natural
History Survey, Prairie Research Institute.
In a 2011 study published in the PLOS ONE scientific journal,
researchers projected that wood-boring insects are anticipated to
cause nearly $1.7 billion in local government expenditures in the
U.S. and $830 million in lost residential property values over a
ten-year time span.
Hunters and campers bringing firewood long distances from home to
wooded areas or homeowners stacking untreated wood in their yards
could be spreading invasive insects.
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2016/Nov/16/images/ads/current/maskeauction_sda_022614.png) “The problem is that insects are hidden in firewood, and you may be
moving these pests to new areas without knowing it,” Estes said.
“This can lead to the potential destruction and death of trees in
natural and urban areas, a decline in the diversity and quality of
natural forests, and even a decline in property values.”
One noteworthy invasive pest associated with the movement of
firewood is the emerald ash borer (EAB). The Illinois Department of
Agriculture (IDOA) has lifted restrictions on the movement of
firewood and other materials from ash trees, partly because the EAB
is now so prevalent in the state. However, it is still illegal to
move these materials across state lines. [to top of second
column] |
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2016/Nov/16/images/ads/current/graue_17_cruze_110716.png)
Although IDOA no longer regulates hardwood firewood, invasive pests
such as the European Gypsy Moth, an oak defoliator, and Thousand
Cankers Disease of walnuts, transmitted by the Walnut Twig Beetle,
are regulated and/or under state and federal quarantines. Check with
IDOA if you have any questions about the movement of plant or plant
materials.
Estes suggests that hunters and campers gather firewood at the
campsite, if permitted, or buy it in the local area. Bundled,
heat-treated firewood sold at gas stations and stores has been
heated to a temperature that kills insect invaders. Look for the
USDA APHIS treatment seal that indicates the bundle has been
properly treated.
[Lisa Sheppard]
![](http://archives.lincolndailynews.com/2016/Nov/16/images/ads/current/brickey_lda_061314.png) |