The weather has turned warmer, and new tender spring flowers are blooming.  This is the time when most of us are not thinking about firewood.  However, this is the perfect time of the year to either purchase or gather your firewood for your fireplace or woodstove.  The following are five reasons why early spring is the perfect time of year. 

The first and possible the most important reason is that firewood has to season for at least six months.  By gathering your firewood in the spring, it will be ready for that first cool evening next fall. 

The second reason is price.  In the spring, the price of firewood is usually much cheaper than it is in the fall when the demand drive up the price.   

The third reason is this allows many insects that may be in your firewood to die off before you bring the wood into your home.   

The fourth reason is again about cost.  However, this time its fuel cost.  When the cost of heating oil rises, so does the cost of wood.  The reason for this is that many people turn toward their fireplaces as a supplement heat source.  Therefore, because we can’t predict what fuel prices will be, it’s best to purchase your firewood in the early spring when the prices are low.   

The fifth reason is availability.  During the spring, many landowners and developers are eager to have individuals clear out wood left behind after their property has been logged.  However, please make sure that you receive permission first.  Many times, loggers leave as much as 30% of a tree behind.  This is wood that can easily be cut and split to fit the dimensions of your fireplace.  In addition, many times this wood is free.   

So, when the weather is getting warmer, and the trees and flowers are coming back to life, consider getting a jump on next fall’s supply of firewood.  You’ll be glad you did that first cool autumn evening.