[ODF_Private_Forests] Firewood permits available soon from ODF Astoria District

[WEEKS Kevin]

Oregon Department of Forestry - NEWS RELEASE

Firewood permits available soon from the Dept. of Forestry's Astoria District

For immediate release                                   Local media distribution
Sept. 27, 2011                                     Contact: Ty Williams
                                                            503-325-5451, twilliams at odf.state.or.us<mailto:twilliams at odf.state.or.us>

With reduced fire danger in the local forests, firewood permits will soon go on sale at the Oregon Department of Forestry's (ODF) Astoria District office. One of the most popular recreational activities on the Astoria District isn't usually thought of as recreation. Every year people go to the forest to harvest their year's supply of firewood.

Firewood cutting is in high demand on the Clatsop State Forest. During 2010, the Astoria District issued 1,186 permits, which equates to 2,372 cords of firewood. This is an increase from previous years and likely stems from the current economic downturn, since firewood is a cost-effective way to heat homes in the winter.

With the increased demand comes higher administrative expense. Citing these rising costs, the Oregon Department of Forestry announced an increase in the firewood cutting permit to $20 for two cords of wood.

Assistant District forester Ron Zilli said the existing fee of $10 was established more than 20 years ago and does not cover the costs of administering the firewood program.

"Since that time, the cost of providing firewood, which includes sorting it on the log landing, issuing and administering the permits, and providing law enforcement, has risen to well in excess of $10," he said.

The forester noted that the new fee of $20, effective October 10, will partially offset ODF's expenses to administer the firewood program.


The department provides firewood from the by-products of forest harvesting activities as a benefit to local community members. Charging $20 brings ODF into alignment with the rate set by other public land management agencies, he said.



Zilli also noted that in addition to forest products, ODF also manages the state forest for wildlife habitat that includes snags and downed wood.



"So please follow your permit as to where and what to cut," he said.


Firewood cutting permits for the Clatsop State Forest are available from the Department of Forestry's Astoria District office, 92219 Highway 202, in Astoria.
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