Collecting Firewood

Collecting firewood used to be a simple task. People used to just collect it from the nearest woods. However, not many people realize that it is more difficult than just finding it and collecting it. You cannot collect firewood from the woods, forests or the side of the road. This is because the land is private or owned by the Forestry Commission. Therefore, it is technically theft.

This wasn't always the case though. The Magna Carta of 1215 gave everyone the right to collect wood from forests - the Forest Charter. It granted commoners the right to collect estovers (dead wood) and use it for fuel. However, the  revoked this license back in 2008 due to health and safety laws. There are some areas that still issue Scavenger Licenses, although you would need to contact the Forestry Commission in your area and there are only a limited number issued.

So what are the options available? Well, here are our top 3 tips:

1. Ask a local farmer/land owner:
   If you live near a farm, etc. then ask the owner. They may be glad of someone clearing dead wood and debris.
2. Joinery / carpentry businesses:
   Most joinery or carpentry businesses will have off-cuts and other items they dispose of. Asking these businesses will not only get you some free firewood, but also help the local company dispose of their waste so it doesn't just end up in land-fill.
3. Buy firewood online
   If you are buying online, then buy from a reputable supplier, like Bowland Firewood. There are a lot of companies about but buying good, seasoned firewood is essential as it saves money and time.

Concluding, it is best that you always get permission before just collecting firewood. And remember, firewood needs seasoning, i.e. it cannot be more than 20% wet, so should be left to dry naturally and a moisture meter is an essential tool. But this will be discussed in more depth in a future blog post.