April 8, 2020 3:25 a.m.
The Umpqua National Forest is now issuing free personal firewood permits to the general public utilizing virtual services such as email and regular mail.
Mark Turney from the Forest Service said this is being done to protect the health and safety of employees and members of the public while the Forest Service offices are closed during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Turney said customers needing personal use firewood permits should send an email to SM.FS.umpquapermit@usda.gov. The email must include the residents full name, phone number and address. Permits will be delivered either by email or by U.S. Mail. Those with questions should call their local office of the Forest Service during regular business hours.
The release said designated firewood cutting areas include the North Umpqua, Tiller and Cottage Grove ranger districts. Maps for those areas will be distributed with the permit. There are currently no designated locations for firewood cutting on the Diamond Lake Ranger District due to snow cover.
Mark Turney was on the Morning Conversation Wednesday on News Radio 1240 KQEN. That interview is a KQEN Podcast at www.541radio.com