April brings more than rain showers! Just as seasonal road closures begin to lift, firewood season has opened on the Mt. Hood National Forest. Personal use firewood permits are available free of charge and commercial permits may be purchased at one of the Forest’s four district offices.
All woodcutters must obtain a firewood permit at a district office or by submitting a firewood permit application. Each household may harvest up to six cords annually with a free firewood permit for personal use only. Permits are valid through November 30.
Woodcutters that intend to harvest firewood for resale must purchase a commercial firewood permit, which is available upon request pending availability.
All woodcutters must carry their permit, firewood load tags, firewood map, and a current information sheet while harvesting. Woodcutters may only collect and cut downed wood. Felling standing trees, dead or alive, is illegal. Firewood cutting areas are described on the required firewood maps and information sheets, which are updated regularly and reflect the current Industrial Fire Precaution Level of each area. More firewood information is available at: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/firewood
Although some roads are reopening for the season, conditions across the Forest vary. Roads and trails may be muddy, wet, or even covered in deep snow for another month or two, especially at higher elevations. The Forest Service does not plow roads and can’t tow vehicles that get stuck, so it’s recommended that visitors come prepared with a winter driving kit and the Ten Essentials. Access to some areas may be limited due to wildfire closures. Driving in a fire closure area is prohibited.
Contact one of our district offices for information on current conditions: www.fs.usda.gov/detail/mthood/about-forest/offices
Some community members that rely on firewood to heat their home may struggle to harvest firewood due to age or physical disabilities. Read more about our Firewood Assistance Program: www.fs.usda.gov/goto/mthood/firewoodassistance
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