One of the most common questions I get asked when customers make a reservation is “Can I bring my own firewood?” The answer to this question is “sorry, but you cannot” and for a good reason I should add. Below are two of the invasive species you could potentially bring to the park:
The Asian Long-horned Beetle is a destructive pest which attacks hardwood trees, including maple, elm, poplars,
birch and willow. It has been found in the Toronto/Vaughan area in Ontario and is under eradication.
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB)
is killing ash trees in southwestern Ontario, and control measures are in place to prevent its spread. Native to Asia, these beetles have no natural predators in Canada. If allowed to spread, they have the potential to kill millions of trees across Canada in our cities, parks and forests.
Firewood often contains insects and plant diseases. Campers who bring firewood from home may accidentally spread those diseases that threaten Ontario’s provincial parks and the health of our forests.
How you can help keep our trees and forests healthy and thriving:
- Do not move firewood, especially firewood obtained from areas under quarantine such as Essex County and the U.S.
- Buy firewood from the area you’re visiting.
- Ask your supplier where their wood comes from.
- If you have questions, check with park staff, call the CFIA at 1-800-442-2342 or go to www.inspection.gc.ca
