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 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.
“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.
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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]
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