Several programs are available for public use in the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, one of which is the firewood cutting permits. The Forest Service allows free permits for people to collect firewood from the forest, which is a popular practice at this time of the year.
Robin DeMario, a spokesperson for the Forest Service, advised that the best times to cut wood are in the spring and fall, from May 1 through December 31.
The permits are available at ranger stations in the Chelan, Entiat, Wenatchee River, and Cle Elum Ranger Districts, while other locations require a small fee. Woodcutters must have a permit, firewood tags, a map, and regulations copies before cutting and transporting firewood.
Only dead and downed trees are allowed to be collected. Additionally, firewood cutting is only permitted in designated areas, as shown on maps that are provided to the woodcutters. A household can obtain up to 12 cords of firewood each year, but only in four or more cord increments at a time.
It is important to note that access to higher elevations may be difficult due to snow coverage and muddy areas. Commercial firewood permits are available to purchase from the Cle Elum, Chelan, and Methow Valley Ranger Districts.
Several Woodcutting Permit Vendors are available, all charging a $2 administrative fee. For instance, Hank’s Harvest Foods and Hank’s Mini Market in Twisp, WA, and Pardner’s Mini Market in Winthrop.