Visitors traveling along Route 28 enroute northward to the Old Forge area have noted a change to the message on the sign placed under the railroad bridge by the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC.)
The message, which previously warned visitors not to feed big game, now informs folks that a permit is required for transport of firewood.
The change is the result of the DEC’s mission to raise awareness about the dangers of trans-locating invasive insects into the Adirondack Park.
According to Town of Webb Supervisor Ted Riehle, the sign will be changed periodically throughout the summer to bring attention to various issues such as firewood and the dangers of feeding bear and deer.
In New York state it is illegal to transport firewood more than fifty miles.
The measure is in accordance with ECL Part 192.5, Firewood Restrictions to Protect Forests from Invasive Species regulation that was put in place on March 18, 2009 and updated on July 3, 2012.
According to the regulation, producers, buyers, and dealers are required to have source documentation that explains that the firewood was either heat-treated and kiln-dried, or if firewood has not been treated, documentation that outlines the exact origin of the wood as well as it’s destination and approximate volume.
