Thursday, May 19, 2016

State parks restrict firewood
Tennessee state parks are following in the footsteps of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in restricting firewood. Beginning June 1, State Parks will advise visitors to use certified heat-treated wood. The new policy is aimed preventing or slowing the introduction of exotic insects or diseases into parks that would threaten the health of trees and forests. Visitors who want to have a campfire can bring certified heat-treated firewood into a park or use dead and down wood from an adjacent area. Manufactured fire logs also are acceptable. Many parks, in conjunction with approved vendors, will have certified heat-treated firewood available for sale. "Transportation of firewood is a primary pathway for the introduction of harmful pests and pathogens to Tennessee's forests and woodlands," says Jere Jeter, Tennessee State Forester. " This step will reduce the risks of new infestations and assist us with the protection of Tennessee's trees." Forests cover more than 14 million acres, or 52 percent, of Tennessee. Heat-treated firewood eliminates investation by killing pests during the drying process and is safe for a campfire. Such firewood lights easily, burns well and is safe to use in cooking. Tennessee State Parks' policy is similar to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park policy put into place in March, 2015. All Tennessee State Parks that feature overnight accommodations will have information on-site regarding safe firewood.


Return to Today's News Stories - Front Page

Thursday, April 29, 2021

  • US 411 Project News
  • Mill Creek Wildfire Update
  • More Bad News For Smokies' Fans

    Wednesday, April 28, 2021

  • Mill Creek Wildfire doubles in size
  • Goodbye Smokies?
  • Keep Cocke County Beautiful
  • Cocke Co. High School Remote Learning today!

    Tuesday, April 27, 2021

  • The fireflies are coming!
  • Burnout Operations on MillCreek wildfire today
  • Gas prices drop
  • Tennessee keeps all US House seats

    Monday, April 26, 2021

  • Boat accident victim ID'd
  • Traffic stop yields drug arrest
  • Cocke County Wildfires

    Friday, April 23, 2021

  • Leaving WNPC
  • Mathis announces candidacy
  • Newport drug roundup
  • Cruise Against Cancer
  • Jobless numbers