State regulators want to change the way firewood dealers in Wisconsin are certified.
The state Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection recently held public hearings on proposed rules that would define firewood dealers as those selling at least 20 cords of wood a year. They would also lower the threshold for how firewood is treated to remove invasive pests and diseases like gypsy moths and the emerald ash borer.
DATCP pest specialist Mick Skwarok says the changes will make it a little bit easier for those interested in certification to obtain it, and the rules will not impact the safety of most firewood sold in the state.
AUDIO: Mick Skwarok (:14)
Firewood dealers in Wisconsin don’t have to be certified, but there are benefits. Certified firewood is allowed in all state parks and can be moved around the state without restriction. Uncertified wood cannot be moved more than 25 miles away from where it was purchased.
The rules now go to the state officials and the Legislature for final approval.
Matt Lehman, WSAU
