A single piece of firewood can destroy millions of trees.
Don't move firewood.

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The problem

Moving firewood, even just a few kilometres, can spread invasive species to our forests. It might seem difficult to imagine, but something as simple as bringing your own firewood when you travel to or from your favourite campsite could threaten and destroy thousands, even millions, of trees.

What you can do

• Don't move firewood.
• Buy and burn local firewood only.
• Learn where your firewood comes from.
• Find out if you are living in or travelling to an area regulated for an invasive pest.
• Leave natural items in their natural habitats.

How firewood spreads invasive species

Transportation of firewood is a common way for invasive species to spread. Hidden under the bark where you can't see them, these pests are moved across Canada.

One invasive species in particular, the emerald ash borer, has killed millions of ash trees in the United States and Canada since it was first introduced in 2002. On its own, it doesn't move very far. In fact, the emerald ash borer naturally spreads only a few kilometres each year. Humans, on the other hand, have helped this insect travel hundreds of kilometres from where it was first introduced into North America. Help slow its spread to new areas: don't move infested materials like firewood.

Where it is a problem

Invasive species can affect us all, no matter where we live. You never know what might be hiding in or under the bark, just waiting to be carried to a new area within Canada.

Potential impact

These pests can cause trees to disappear from our forests, cities, streets and parks. This can affect air and water quality, as well as natural food sources. It can deprive citizens of shade and animals of habitat while damaging private property and reducing land value.

Did you know that moving firewood to or from certain places can be against the law?

You could face penalties of up to $50 000 and/or prosecution if you move firewood out of an area regulated for an invasive species unless you have prior approval from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Stop the spread of invasive insects and diseases

An invasive species can be any plant, animal, aquatic life or micro-organism that spreads when introduced outside of its natural distribution, and causes serious and often irreversible damage to our ecosystems, economy and society.

For more information please visit the CFIA's website at www.inspection.gc.ca or contact the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342.