Conscientious Oregonians have been storing up firewood for the inevitable cool days of winter, and the experienced wood-gatherers know that dry, seasoned firewood burns most efficiently, provides the most heat and smokes the least.

In fact, unseasoned wood is not suitable for open fireplaces, according to Steve Bowers, a forester with the Douglas County office of the Oregon State University Extension Service.

Ideally, wood should be purchased or gathered at least a year in advance of burning. more.....