Applications Now Available for Annual Firewood Lottery

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced that applications for the annual state forest firewood lottery are now available.  Applications will be accepted until February 1, with the results of the lottery determined by March 14, 2012.

Applications may be downloaded and more information may be found at the DEEP Forestry‘s Web site:  DEEP: State Lands Firewood Program or by calling 860-424-3630.

Standing trees and downed wood will be sold to the lottery winners in designated two-cord lots for $60 by DEEP Foresters as forest road conditions allow. Most all permits will be issued before October 2012.  

Firewood Program in State Forests

The annual firewood lottery offers Connecticut homeowners an opportunity to enjoy the state forests in a unique way by providing a renewable affordable locally grown fuel source. Firewood harvesting from State land helps achieve sustainable forest management goals, improved forest health, and offers fun physical activity for family and friends.  Henry David Thoreau is often credited with the saying that firewood warms you twice, once through the exercise of splitting and once in the fireplace.

DEEP reminds all visitors that removal of any firewood from a state forest requires a permit. In addition, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn while cutting wood. The minimum requirements of PPE include the following:  hard hat, eye protection, hearing protection, and cut-resistant chaps or pants. Chainsaws have to be equipped with properly functioning safety devices including a chain brake.