The arrival of fall can serve as a reminder that the cold months of winter are on their way. With that, many people whose homes have wood burning fireplaces are preparing to stockpile on firewood to keep their homes warm. Several options exist to produce firewood. Dead or downed trees can be cut without a permit, but live trees cannot be cut without obtaining a forestry permit. Safety and proper protective gear must be worn for people who cut their own wood. Existing trails and roads must be used, as creating new paths can cause damage to trees and new seedlings. Unmarked piles of wood left behind should also be ignored, as there is a possibility that such piles could belong to commercial foresters.

Pine wood cannot be transported into Saskatchewan or out of the Cypress Hills area due to the spread of the mountain pine beetle being at risk. Dutch elm disease regulations make it illegal to use, store, transport or purchase elm wood for any purpose. Those who choose to purchase firewood can do so through a commercial firewood seller.

Anybody who has questions about forestry permits, types of fuel wood and the requirements for harvest and transportation of firewood can contact the nearest Environment Department Office.