Firewood Safety and Fall Prep:
What Every Bloomington Homeowner Should Know
As the temperatures start to drop in Bloomington and across Monroe County, many homeowners are stacking firewood, preparing their fire pits, and getting ready for cozy evenings outdoors. But before lighting that first fire, it’s worth taking a closer look at how you store and use your firewood. October is recognized as Firewood Awareness Month, and it’s the perfect time to talk about how responsible firewood handling can protect your property—and Indiana’s trees—from invasive pests.
Did you know that firewood can be a hidden carrier for invasive insects like the emerald ash borer, spotted lanternfly, and spongy moth? According to Nature Conservancy and the Don’t Move The Firewood campaign, transporting firewood from one area to another is one of the fastest ways to spread these pests. Even a single piece of wood can carry eggs or larvae that overwinter and hatch the following spring, leading to new infestations.
The safest choice is always to buy or cut your firewood locally and burn it where you use it. In fact, Purdue experts recommend keeping your firewood use within 50 miles of where it was harvested to prevent the spread of invasive species. For those who love camping or backyard fires, it’s a small change that makes a big difference for Indiana’s forests.
Proper storage is just as important as sourcing local wood. Keep your firewood stacked neatly off the ground and away from your home or wooden structures. This prevents moisture buildup and reduces the risk of termites, mold, or other pests finding their way indoors. A covered rack or a simple tarp can help keep your wood dry while still allowing for airflow.
If you’re planning to install or upgrade your outdoor fire pit, fall is the perfect time. Wells Lawn Care offers professional fire pit installation services that create a safe, stylish centerpiece for your yard—ideal for enjoying crisp fall nights with friends and family.
As you prepare your firewood and outdoor spaces for cooler weather, it’s also the perfect time to focus on your landscape. Falling leaves, overgrown shrubs, and debris can smother your lawn and create unsafe conditions around fire pits or outdoor areas. A thorough cleanup now makes your yard safer, cleaner, and more enjoyable all season long.
Our team at Wells Lawn Care specializes in leaf cleanup and seasonal clean-up services designed to remove debris, trim back plants, and prepare your yard for winter. These services not only boost curb appeal but also help your lawn recover faster when spring arrives.
Living in Bloomington and Monroe County means embracing all four seasons and that includes being good stewards of our local environment. By practicing smart firewood safety and keeping up with seasonal landscape maintenance, homeowners can protect local trees, prevent pest infestations, and keep their outdoor spaces looking their best year-round.
Contact Wells for Help With Your Fall Preparation
At Wells Lawn Care & Landscaping, we’re proud to serve our neighbors with reliable, professional care that reflects the beauty of southern Indiana. Whether you’re preparing your firewood pile, installing a new fire pit, or scheduling a fall cleanup, we’re here to help make your yard safe, inviting, and ready for the colder months ahead.
Ready to get your yard fall-ready? Contact Wells Lawn Care & Landscaping today to schedule your seasonal cleanup or fire pit installation. Let’s make your outdoor space a place you’ll love all season long.
Call Wells Lawn Care & Landscaping today at (812) 272-9336 or visit our contact page to schedule a landscaping consultation today!