The discovery of the invasive emerald ash borer in Wisconsin in early August, 2008 caused changes to how firewood and other wood products can be moved within our state. It also served as a stark reminder of how firewood can harbor many different kinds of invasive pests and diseases that are harmful to Wisconsin's trees both in forest and urban settings. Gypsy moth, oak wilt, and the emerald ash borer are just a few examples of pests and diseases that hitch hike on firewood, making their way easily into previously unaffected, healthy areas. This poses a serious threat to trees throughout the state. To protect campgrounds, parks and forests from these firewood hitch hikers, the Wisconsin DNR created a permanent rule, effective December 1, 2006, which prohibits bringing firewood onto any DNR properties from more than 50 miles away or from outside of Wisconsin (DNR Rule: NR 45.04 (1) (g). To protect Lake Joy Campground's trees from disease and invasive pests, we have also adopted the DNR rules which prohibit bringing firewood onto the campground from more than 50 miles away or from outside of Wisconsin.
(See Range of Allowable Firewood Map Below)
In addition, state and federal laws forbid moving firewood out of emerald ash borer quarantined areas. Currently, this means firewood that has been stored, purchased, harvested, or that has moved through the following areas may not be moved out of these areas: Ozaukee, Washington, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan Counties in Wisconsin, anywhere in Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Lower Michigan, and portions of eastern Upper Michigan and Ontario, Canada. Also, firewood may not be moved from counties in eastern Wisconsin to anywhere farther west under gypsy moth quarantines. If such firewood enters Lake Joy Campground, regardless of whether it is within 50 miles, it will be confiscated.
If requested, vehicles carrying wood may be inspected to ensure compliance with Lake Joy Campground's firewood rules. Firewood that does not comply with the above rules will be confiscated.
What is Acceptable Firewood for Lake Joy Campground?
Firewood purchased within 50 miles of Lake Joy Campground.
AND harvested in Wisconsin.
AND NOT purchased, harvested or stored in, or transported through a quarantined county of Wisconsin. These include: Ozaukee, Washington, Fond du Lac, and Sheboygan Counties.
Firewood from a vendor that is certified by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection.
Dimensional and untreated lumber scraps, such as 2-by-4s and 2-by-6s.
Minimally processed wood such as full or partial pallets, skids, or slabs are NOT ACCEPTABLE. Pallets and slabs are cut wood, but they can be fresh enough or have enough attached bark that they can harbor pests or diseases. Also, wood that is painted, treated with preservatives, or made up of a composite of wood and glue such as chipboard and plywood releases toxins when it is burned and this is a serious health hazard. This type of wood will not be allowed to be burned at Lake Joy Campground.
We have firewood for sale at the campground from a State Certified Vendor.
