October is Firewood Month, and state agriculture officials warn that moving untreated firewood can spread destructive insects and plant diseases

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - The New Mexico Department of Agriculture is asking residents to buy firewood where they plan to burn it this fall to help stop the spread of invasive pests that threaten the state’s forests and landscapes.

October is Firewood Month, and officials say untreated firewood can carry insects and plant diseases that devastate native trees. Moving that wood across counties or state lines allows beetles, caterpillars and other species to hitchhike to new areas where they can take hold.

“Invasive pests don’t have borders. Something as simple as moving untreated firewood can have long-term impacts on New Mexico’s forests, farms and communities,” said Agriculture Secretary Jeff Witte. “By choosing to buy and burn local firewood, each of us can help protect our state’s natural resources.”

The agency encourages residents to purchase firewood locally and, if they must move it, to ensure it has been heat-treated to kill hidden pests. Consumers should also ask sellers for proof of treatment or certification.

NMDA officials note that transporting untreated wood from other states is one of the main ways tree-killing pests spread. State and federal regulations may also restrict where firewood can be brought into public forests or campgrounds.

Residents can help by buying local wood, burning it soon after purchase and sharing information about invasive species prevention. More resources are available at DontMoveFirewood.org.

The Department’s Standards and Consumer Services Division enforces the state’s Weights and Measures Law, which requires firewood to be sold by the cord or fractional cord. For questions about regulations, contact the division at 575-646-1616.

For information about invasive pest prevention, call NMDA’s Entomology and Nursery Industries Section at 575-646-3207.