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With a potential snowstorm coming, and many Western North Carolinians and Helene survivors struggling to heat their homes, there’s a free source of home heating available: downed wood in the Pisgah National Forest.
Usually, firewood collection in national forestland is by permit only. But since Helene, permitless firewood collection has been allowed in the parts of the Pisgah National Forest. The Forest Service decided to extend free firewood collection through 2026, at least where the forest isn’t closed for Helene recovery-related rebuilds and timber salvage.
The decision is based on assessment of both community need and climate risk, National Forest Supervisor James Melonas said. Downed wood from Helene still litters the forest floor.
As trees felled by the storm molder and dry out, the wood only becomes more flammable. “We are expecting another busy fire season this springtime based on the outlook,” Melonas said.
They’re trying to head off the worst of spring wildfire season by getting rid of that fuel.
In its decision, the Forest Service also considered the lack of affordable home heating options for many community members in the rural areas adjoining the Pisgah. “When we talk to our district rangers about this, there's definitely a need out there,” Melonas said.
Even though no permit is required, there are still some limitations. According to the U.S. Forest Service, anyone wishing to collect firewood must follow these rules:
- This collection is intended for firewood to be collected and used locally so as to prevent the spread of invasive species.
- Do not gather firewood from closed areas.
- All motorized vehicles must stay on clear roadways.
- Do not block traffic.
- Take all trash, litter and wood scraps from collecting firewood with you.
- No on-site warming fires.
- No digging or picking of any plants is allowed.
- No collecting in an active logging area.
- Collected Firewood is for personal use only and may not be sold or exchanged.
- Firewood must be collected and used locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.
For the most up-to-date information on where firewood collection is allowed, contact the appropriate ranger district:
- Appalachian Ranger District (Avery, Buncombe, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, and Yancey counties): (828) 689-9694
- Grandfather Ranger District (Avery, Burke, Caldwell, McDowell, and Watauga counties): (828) 652-2144
- Pisgah Ranger District (Buncombe, Haywood, and Transylvania counties): (828) 877-3265
