October 1, 2021 4:30 a.m.

The National Forests of Oregon and Washington in Region 6 of the U.S. Forest Service have transitioned their firewood program to become a free use program for the public.

This includes the Umpqua National Forest.

A release said those with permits may use firewood for cutting, manufacturing, handling, or other processing, but not for resale. Charge permits are available for those who wish to resell firewood. The regional minimum rate for firewood charge permits remains unchanged at $5 per cord.

Regional Forester Glenn Casamassa said, “This change will benefit people who rely on firewood as their primary heat source and will allow us to dispose of material that otherwise would have a cost to burn or remove”.

Forest Supervisors will designate free use firewood areas on all or parts of units that are compatible with land management plans and will establish the annual limit on the number of cords an individual may collect. The total amount of free use material granted to an individual in any fiscal year cannot exceed $200 in value.

Contact the Umpqua National Forest for more information.