Trees are an important part of our world. Not only do they add shade and beauty to our communities and protection for our land and cattle, they also provide much-needed oxygen and absorb more than ten pounds of carbon dioxide each year. However, non-native insects and diseases are killing these important parts of our ecosystems and causing millions of dollars of damage to communities and forests across the nation.  These insects and diseases can’t move far on their own, but when people move firewood they can jump hundreds of miles. In May of 2018, emerald ash borer, a destructive exotic beetle, was discover in Sioux Falls. Now more than ever, it is imperative that South Dakotans buy or collect firewood where they plan to burn it or buy certified heat-treated firewood.

Therefore, I pledge to protect South Dakota’s natural resources by not moving firewood.

By signing this pledge, I promise not to move untreated firewood into or within South Dakota. I promise to buy or collect firewood where I plan to burn it or buy certified heat-treated firewood. I also understand that by taking this pledge, my name and county will be published on the South Dakota Department of Agriculture’s website with all others who have taken the pledge.

To learn more about emerald ash borer in South Dakota, click here.

For more information on the quarantine of ash materials in Minnehaha, Lincoln, and Turner counties, click here.