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I rarely write about Delaware, but that isn't because it isn't a lovely place with many trees. Delaware happens to not have a lot of problems with forest pests right now. So it was a pleasure to read this well informed article about how to prevent firewood from spreading pests into Delaware, titled Firewood season sparks to life in Delaware.

I particularly like this part;

But John Petersen, a spokesman for the Department of Agriculture's forestry division, said people should do their research before hauling away a trailer-full of firewood and cozying up in front of their fires.

Hearthkeepers should avoid buying firewood from other states and regions, he said, because of the threat of introducing invasive insects that could decimate Delaware's living trees. Foremost among these threats are the Asian longhorned beetle, which tunnel and lay eggs in maple trees, and the emerald ash borer, which burrow into ash trees.

"People could come from Maryland to camp in Delaware and inadvertently bring these pests," he said. "If it did come, it'd devastate certain parts of the state."

Excellently done! Good job summing up the issue, Delawarians!