MANHATAN, Kan. — The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District Tuttle Creek Lake Project Office announced today its firewood cutting program for the upcoming heating season.
The public land administered by the Corps constitutes 15,700 acres south of Randolph Bridge. Within this area, only dead wood on the ground may be cut for firewood. This includes fallen trees and driftwood. There is no requirement for a permit from the Corps to gather dead and downed wood.
Land administered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism falls under a separate policy. Written approval is required for cutting of firewood in the state parks. State park firewood cutting permits are available at the state park office in River Pond. Contact the state park office at (785) 539-8511.
The Tuttle Creek Wildlife Area, administered by KDWPT, covers 17,700 acres north of Randolph Bridge. A permit is required to cut firewood within this area. Contact the area office in Blue Rapids at (785) 363-7316.
Firewood cutters should note that it is prohibited to cut standing timber of standing timber. Standing dead trees often provide valuable nesting habitat for wildlife.
Vehicles must remain on designated roadways, so plan to haul wood to the road by hand, wheelbarrow, or other non-motorized means. All firewood gathered must be for personal use and not sold.
When using a chain saw, remember to use appropriate safety gear, including leg chaps, hard hat, and eye and hearing protection. Know your limits, and never cut alone.
For more information, contact the Corps of Engineers at (785) 539-8511.
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Release no. PA-2016-56