Home » Bass Lake » Sierra National Forest Announces 2023 Fuelwood Permits
Image of a toy lumberjack figurine cutting up a log.
If you're willing to put in a little hard work, you can now get as many as 12 cords of firewood for only $60. But please be careful out there! Read on for more information!

Sierra National Forest Announces 2023 Fuelwood Permits

MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES – The Sierra National Forest resumed selling Personal Use Wood Cutting Permits for the April 17th through November 30th period. The North Fork and Prather Forest Service offices began selling permits on Monday April 17th. All permits will be valid only for the Sierra National Forest lands and do not include private property. The forest will be offering a four-cord permit to the public for $20.00, with a maximum purchase limit of 12 cords per household.

Image of the United States Forest Service logo.Recognizing the challenges that many are facing, and in order to maximize the opportunity for the public to assist in reducing excess fuel loading on the Forest, prices for firewood will remain at the lowest cost that policy allows, $5.00 per cord.

A permit must be in the possession of individuals removing forest firewood, and load receipts must be attached to the load before leaving the wood-cutting site. We remind the public that removing any timber, tree, or other forest product, is prohibited by 36 CFR 261.6 (h) except as authorized by special use authorization, timber sale contract or permit, federal law, or regulation.

Image of freshly cut firewood.

Image by Maurits Bausenhart.

Although the Personal Use Fuelwood season began April 17th, due to this past winter’s storms, those Forest Service roads that sustained significant damage will remain closed until repairs can be completed. While a number of roads are typically scheduled to be opened May 1st, many may remain temporarily closed until repairs and conditions render them passable.

Please stay connected to the Sierra National Forest webpage and Facebook sites (see links below). The public is reminded to contact the High Sierra Ranger District office in Prather, CA, at 559-855-5355; the Bass Lake Ranger District in North Fork, CA, at 559-877-2218; or the Forest Supervisors Office in Clovis, CA, at 559-297-0706.

You may also go online to find out about wood cutting regulations, road closures and current road conditions, prior to traveling to the forest to cut firewood.

Once you have your permit, please be safe and aware of others in the area, and aware of your surroundings given the level of road damage and tree mortality. Thank you in advance for the role you will be playing, as part of the team to help restore the Sierra National Forest back to a resilient condition!

2023 High Sierra Woodcutting Map (PDF)

Bass Lake Woodcutting Exclusion Areas (PDF)

Don’t forget to follow the Sierra National Forest on Facebook and on their website.

Top 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Chainsaw
  1. Image of a man cutting a log with a chainsaw.

    Image by Hans Linde.

    Read the manufacturer’s manual: The first and most important step in maintaining your chainsaw is to read the manufacturer’s manual thoroughly. The manual will provide you with specific instructions on how to maintain your chainsaw and ensure that it runs smoothly.

  2. Keep it clean: After every use, clean the chainsaw thoroughly to remove sawdust, debris, and any other particles that may be stuck in the chain or other parts. Use a brush to clean the air filter and carburetor, and wipe the chainsaw with a dry cloth.
  3. Sharpen the chain regularly: Dull chains can cause the chainsaw to overheat and put unnecessary strain on the engine. Sharpen the chain regularly to maintain its cutting ability and reduce wear on the engine.
  4. Image of a man cutting a log with a chainsaw.

    Image by Hans Linde.

    Check the chain tension: A loose chain can cause the chainsaw to operate inefficiently, while a tight chain can put stress on the engine. Check the chain tension regularly and adjust it as needed.

  5. Check the air filter: The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine, which can cause damage over time. Check the air filter regularly and replace it if it is clogged or damaged.
  6. Use clean fuel: Use clean, fresh fuel to avoid clogging the carburetor and fuel filter. Make sure the fuel you use is free of water and dirt, and use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from going bad.
  7. Check the spark plug: The spark plug ignites the fuel in the engine, and a faulty spark plug can cause the chainsaw to run poorly or not start at all. Check the spark plug regularly and replace it if it is worn or damaged.
  8. Image of a stack of firewood.

    Image by Kerstin Riemer.

    Lubricate the chainsaw: The chainsaw chain and bar require lubrication to operate smoothly. Make sure to lubricate the chainsaw regularly with chain oil to reduce wear on the chain and bar.

  9. Store the chainsaw properly: Store the chainsaw in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. Make sure to remove the chain and bar before storing the chainsaw.
  10. Get it serviced regularly: Regular servicing of the chainsaw by a professional can help prevent major problems and extend the life of the chainsaw. Take your chainsaw to a professional for servicing at least once a year.
Check out this short video on how to use a chainsaw to cut firewood! 

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Sierra News Online

Sierra News Online