The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has removed hazardous trees from Grand Lake St. Marys State Park that are now available for collection from now until Sunday, May 1. Free firewood may be collected Sunday through Saturday during daylight hours in the Fry’s area of the park.
Only firewood cut by the ODNR Division of Forestry and located at the designated park pick-up areas may be collected and removed. Removal of any standing or fallen trees outside of the designated pick-up areas will be prohibited.
Many of the trees that were removed have been affected by a Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) Quarantine. The larvae of EAB feed on the inner bark of ash trees, eliminating the tree's ability to transport water and nutrients. The trees at Grand Lake St. Marys State Park that have been affected by EAB pose a public safety concern for park visitors and campers.
Use of chainsaws, log-splitters, axes, mauls, as well as any other hand tools or powered equipment for further processing of the firewood at or adjacent to the collection area will be prohibited. Vehicles must remain in the designated parking areas.
Firewood will be available on a first-come, first-served basis, and the department makes no guarantee that the supply will be available for the full duration of the designated timeframe.
ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR website at ohiodnr.gov.
For more information, contact:
Grand Lake St. Marys Park Office
(419) 394-3611