Michigan agencies expand firewood campaign to prevent invasive species

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) are urging residents not to transport firewood over long distances during the upcoming holiday weekend. This initiative aims to curb the spread of invasive insects and plant diseases, which are frequently transported via untreated wood.

To support this effort, the agencies are expanding the Invasive-Free Firewood Certification Program. This program helps local producers and suppliers become certified by using heat-treatment processes that neutralize pests and diseases, making the wood safe for transport.

Officials noted that over 140 pests and diseases, such as the Asian longhorned beetle, hemlock woolly adelgid, and oak wilt, can be carried in untreated firewood. These species are often difficult to detect with the naked eye and can cause significant damage to local ecosystems once established.