OT... firewood

[Richard from SE AZ]

Going on a camping trip to an area where we have to take our own firewood. I have a pile of Poplar and Ash from two trees that died in my yard. Does this wood make good firewood for a camp fire ? Is it stinky ?

 

[Janicholson]

Most likely all campgrounds will not allow you to bring in wood from outside sources. The reason is the possibility of spreading insects and diseases to new locations. Ash is particularly troublesome in that it can carry Emerald Ash Borers in the bark. To answer your question, both burn well if kept open in the fire pit and don't smoke much. The Poplar will burn hot and quick with no staying power. The ash will burn hot and has really long burning ability. It is important to deal with regulations related to the spread of disease. I live on the edge of Ash borer invasion to my south. I have 40 ash trees in my neighborhood alone. (all healthy) Jim

 

[David G]

Ash is a good wood, there are a lot of travel restrictions on it, check before going.

 

[coshoo]

Both will burn alright- take Poplar to burn it up and get rid of it, and leave the ash at home to use as firewood in your home woodstove. As others have said, check ahead to see if it is OK to take in.

 

[Russ from MN]

They are both good firewood, it they're dry, but most everything is dry in AZ. Do you really want to have a campfire with all the wildfires in AZ recently? Most of the Eastern Superstitions burned this summer because someone was careless with a fire. Part of the area that we hike in is still closed because of it.

 

[Traditional Farmer]

Oak and Hickory are a whole lot better and will burn hotter and longer.

 

[jeffcat]

Agree with the others. That is why you see signs along the road that say "local firewood". Firewood for anywhere in the country needs to be baked. That kills all of the insects and molds etc. Roughly 200? or a little hotter. Sounds crazy but not kidding.

 

[mtny]

Pertaining to the ash borer , all my ash are dead or dying . Central NY right on PA border. Hemlocks are following suit . Ash is excellent firewood . Poplar is ok for campwood .