If you haven't noticed already, this is the time of year when bugs begin to thaw out, after a long winter, and somehow find their way into your home.

The season is approaching when we will pack the trucks and trailers, gather firewood for the camp and head out to our favorite spot to relax without a care in the world.

But, did you know that it's illegal to bring in out-of-state firewood? It's actually banned in the state of Maine and with good reason.

When you buy or pick up a load of firewood in another state, you have no idea as to whether or not bugs are hidden within the cracks and crevices of the wood.

In the good name of agriculture, forestry and conservation in the Pine Tree State, the Maine Forest Service want to remind all of us that it's not only a good idea to not bring firewood into the state, but it's also against the law.

What Could Be Hiding In Your Firewood?

Scott Olson, Getty Images
Scott Olson, Getty Images
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Many things, but especially exotic bugs which can carry disease and other nasty things.

Not only do they pose a threat to our health, but they also pose a threat to the health of our forests, which can cause a threat to our wildlife.

Pardon the pun, but diseases can spread like...well...wildfire. The problem is that many times, you can't see them. Even though bugs can spread within a few miles on their own, when people are bringing bug-infested wood into Maine, that helps them spread even faster.

You might be thinking, "What if I'm building a cabin and the lumber comes from another state?"

Make note that untreated wood is what is banned in Maine, not treated wood. 

Note: If you've already brought out-of-state firewood into Maine, don't panic! All you need to do is burn it. If you can't burn it all within a 24-hour time period, you can drop the firewood off at one of these sites here.

The best way to avoid helping disease-infested bugs travel throughout our beautiful state is to not bring in wood from out of state. Another great idea is to support your local neighbors and businesses when you buy firewood from local folks near your camping area.

Maine's Firewood Scout can help you find firewood vendors near your home or camp.

For more information about this and other ways to preserve Maine, visit the Maine Forest Service site here.

Have a safe and fun camping experience this season!

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