Local Wood
To prevent or slow the spread of EAB, Ohio has enacted regulations prohibiting the transportation of firewood from more than 40 counties. If you are camping anywhere in Ohio, use only local woods. Don't take any firewood from the area that it is harvested in.
Finding Acceptable Firewood
Ohio certifies firewood dealers to sell EAB free wood. An updated list of dealers can be found on the Ohio Department of Agriculture website.
Penalties
Penalties for transporting wood out of quarantined counties can be steep. You might be fined up to $4,000 and face other penalties.
Identification
The EAB affects ash trees that are identifiable by dead or dying upper branches and leaves. The borer is metallic emerald green and about 1/2 inch long. They create indented trails under the bark of the trees.
Other Suggestions to Prevent the Spread
If you build a campfire, make sure the wood is burned completely to destroy any insects. Also, know who you get firewood from and make sure they are approved dealers.
Article Written By Catherine Rayburn-Trobaug
Catherine Rayburn-Trobaugh has been a writer and college writing professor since 1992. She has written for international companies, published numerous feature articles in the "Wilmington News-Journal," and won writing contests for her poetry and fiction. Rayburn-Trobaugh earned a Master of Arts in English from Wright State University.
