GLADSTONE — Hiawatha National Forest is extending the availability of free personal use firewood cutting on the Hiawatha National Forest to the general public through June 15.

“We decided to extend the special cutting period, which had previously been scheduled to end May 15, 2020, as a benefit to the public during this time,” said Forest Supervisor Cid Morgan.

Current free-use firewood permits set to expire May 15 are automatically extended to June 15, 2020, without the need to obtain a new permit.

During this time of social distancing, a personal use firewood permit will be issued upon request by calling one of the offices listed below.

You will need to provide your:

– Full name;

– Drivers’ license or other identification number and expiration date;

– Address;

– License plate number; and

– The amount of firewood desired.

Standing dead and down trees may be gathered for firewood. Further guidelines for cutting will be provided with the permit. This authority applies only to non-commercial firewood cutting on Hiawatha National Forest system lands.

To obtain a free use firewood gathering permit, please call the appropriate District below. Leave a message with your name and phone number and we will return your call.

For cutting in Manistique, Munising or Rapid River Districts call (906) 387-2512 or (906) 474-6442

For cutting in St. Ignace or Sault Ste Marie Districts call (906) 643-7900 (alternate (906) 298-0111)