Firewood and Bark Beetles in the Southwest

Bark Beetles are tiny naturally occurring insects that contribute to the death of thousands of trees in the Southwest each year. Most species of conifers are utilized by bark beetles. Even freshly cut logs are an ideal host for many bark beetles. The buildup of beetle populations, whether in infested trees or firewood, can then attack nearby live trees. Precautionary steps can reduce the likelihood of bark beetles, that have infested firewood, attacking live trees.