The Prince George Air Improvement Roundtable (PGAIR) wood stove program is going to be taken to a new level this year.
A $40,000 grant from the Ministry of Environment was confirmed this week to pay for two pilot projects promoting clean wood-burning education.
Many of the details are still to be worked out but one will provide clinics to residents who recently installed certified wood stoves on how to start a fire and operate their new stoves to effectively reduce smoke.
The other will promote the use of dry, seasoned wood and encourage proper wood storage through the provision of wood storage boxes.
"What we're trying to do is address some of the barriers around using wood stoves properly," said PGAIR president Terry Robert. "One of the things we've noticed in the past is that, while it's great to have a brand new wood stove, if you're not using it properly, you can still be adding significant emissions to the air shed."
The programs come on top of the wood stove exchange program PGAIR has been operating, now in its fifth year. Those participating in the exchange program will be required to take part in the two new programs and the goal is to attract at least 50 people.
Where the wood storage boxes will come from is yet to be decided. Robert raised the possibility of finding a local businessperson or perhaps a college or high-school trades program to supply the boxes.
And he said local wood suppliers are encouraged to get in touch with PGAIR to help deliver the clinics.
"There are a few groups in town who sell wood - it's a little business for them - and we'd be happy to work with them," Robert said. "They probably have tons of information on how wood is properly stored."
The aim is to have the groundwork in place by the end of April, followed by announcements in May or June, and then final rollout of the wood stove exchange voucher process starting in September.
Those who participate receive $500 rebates towards the purchase of new wood stoves.
Those interested can e-mail Robert at [email protected], leave a message through www.pgairquality.com or call him at 250-612-0252.
PGAIR will host a transportation dialogue meeting on Tues., March 27 at the Civic Centre, 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Three items are on the agenda:
CN Rail will give a presentation on its national sustainability plan and provide local examples.
The B.C. Scrap-It president will talk about the program's results to date in the Prince George airshed.
City officials will talk about efforts within city operations and within its long-term planning to reduce emissions.
Just two members of the public showed up to the last meeting but Robert predicted more will be interested in this coming meeting.
