Vermont Business Magazine With the home heating season here, you may be wondering if your firewood is dry and ready to burn. Vermonters can check out a moisture meter for free from one of 63 public libraries. This is thanks to a statewide loan program from the Departments of Libraries and Environmental Conservation (DEC).
Using this small, hand-held device, you can make sure your firewood is dry (with 20% moisture or less) before burning. Dry, seasoned wood burns hotter and cleaner than wet wood, saving both money and energy while making less smoke. During the wintertime, residential wood smoke is a main contributor to fine particle pollution and is responsible for poor air quality days, especially on calm, clear, and cold winter nights.
Fine particle pollution consists of particles less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter, also known as PM2.5. Fine particles are so small they can be inhaled and cause serious health problems. Fine particles are also the main cause of reduced visibility (haze) in scenic areas.
“To prevent poor air quality and safeguard public health, it is key to follow proper wood burning practices,” said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli. “Using dry, seasoned wood reduces smoke, cuts air emissions, and protects our families, neighbors, and the environment.”
You can find more information about the moisture meter loan program and a list of participating libraries online. To learn how to use a moisture meter, check out the EPA’s video or fact sheet.
For resources on proper wood burning practices, visit:
- DEC Wood Burning Resources
- DEC Firewood Moisture Meter Loan Program
- EPA Particulate Matter Basics
- EPA Burn Wise
The moisture level near the middle of a piece of firewood is measured on a freshly split face by pressing the pins on the meter into the wood. Firewood should be below 20% moisture content to burn cleanly and efficiently.
Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Website.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.
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