What method should be avoided to ensure the prevention of invasive tree pests?

Bringing firewood from home is a method that should be avoided to prevent the spread of invasive tree pests. Firewood can harbor various insects and diseases that are often not visible to the naked eye. When firewood is transported long distances, it can introduce these invasive species into new areas where they may not have previously existed. This movement of pests can lead to devastating effects on local ecosystems, forestry, and agriculture.

Using firewood obtained locally minimizes the risk because it typically comes from the same area, reducing the chance of introducing non-native pests. Burning firewood on-site or using heat-treated wood helps in controlling existing pests and pathogens. Heat treatment, for example, effectively kills many insect pests and diseases, making it a safer alternative. Therefore, avoiding the practice of bringing firewood from home is crucial in protecting native forests and their associated wildlife from invasive species.