Authorities in Rhode Island advise that firewood should be bought and used locally to prevent the spread of damaging tree pests like the emerald ash borer– an invasive insect that kills thousands of trees every year and continues to spread in Rhode Island. Nearby states also have invasive tree pests known to hitchhike on firewood such as spotted lanternfly and the federally regulated Asian longhorned beetle; do not bring firewood into Rhode Island from areas infested with these pests.
Many nearby states (e.g., NY, NH, VT, CT, PA) strictly regulate the entry and transport of firewood, so be sure to learn the firewood regulations in surrounding areas before taking firewood out of Rhode Island. To best protect forests in Rhode Island and elsewhere, buy firewood where you will burn it.
This summary is accurate to the best of DMF staff abilities as of 6 June 2022.
Rhode Island Web Resources
- Cooperative Agricultural Pest Survey Pest Alerts, Rhode Island DEM
- Rhode Island State Parks Camping Policy, RI Parks and Rec.
- Emerald Ash Borer in Rhode Island, Rhode Island DEM
- Asian Longhorned Beetle Information, USDA APHIS
- Spotted Lanternfly Information, Rhode Island DEM
- European Spongy Moth Federal Quarantine in Rhode Island
- Summary of Plant Protection Regulation
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