Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) is accepting applications for the annual state forest firewood lottery.  Applications will be accepted until February 1, with the results of the lottery determined by March 15, 2013.  Applications may be downloaded and more information may be found at the DEEP Forestry‘s Web site:  DEEP: State Lands Firewood Program or by calling 860-424-3630.

Standing trees and downed wood will be sold to the lottery winners in designated two-cord lots for $60 by DEEP Foresters as forest road conditions allow.  Permits will be issued by October 2013.

Firewood Program in State Forests

The annual firewood lottery offers Connecticut homeowners an opportunity to enjoy the state forests in a unique way by providing a renewable, affordable, locally grown fuel source.  Firewood harvesting from state land helps achieve sustainable firewood management goals.  The program offers physical activity for families and gives foresters the opportunity to clean-up after storms and harvests.

The removal of any firewood from a state forest requires a permit.  In addition, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn while cutting wood.  The minimum requirements of PPE include the following: hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, and cut-resistant chaps or pants.  Chainsaws have to be equipped with properly functioning safety devices including a chain brake.

DEEP reminds residents not to move firewood long distances as this poses a risk of spreading harmful wood boring insects that can kill live trees.  Also the New Haven County Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) quarantine requires all firewood in New Haven County to stay in New Haven County unless treated and permitted by the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.

Image courtesy Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection