Grant money available to upgrade heating

Local homeowners who heat using wood stoves and fireplaces have an opportunity to receive money to clean up their indoor and outdoor air. This is done through the Southwest Clean Air Agency (SWCAA) Woodsmoke Reduction Program, with funding provided by the Washington State Department of Ecology (ECY).

As in many areas of Washington, wintertime wood burning in some counties can be the largest source of fine particle pollution (PM2.5). Wood burning can create pollution often greater than industry and road vehicle emissions. Industries like energy production, manufacturing, and transportation are often cited as the top global contributors. However, local sources like residential wood smoke have the most significant and direct impact on immediate community air quality and health. For communities like Wahkiakum County, the wood smoke from home heating fires is actually the number one source of emissions, significantly contributing to local air quality and health issues.

To reduce wood smoke and fine particles, which are often the result of incomplete burning, the recurring SWCAA Woodsmoke Reduction Program is currently active and accepting applications from eligible residents across Clark, Cowlitz, Lewis, Skamania, and Wahkiakum counties. This initiative is an important step in addressing fine particle pollution and aims to replace older, less-efficiently burning (and therefore higher-polluting) wood stoves and inserts with modern and more efficient heating devices. If you burn cord wood for heat, you may qualify for one of the incentives to replace, refit, or simply remove old wood stoves or fireplaces. Grants up to $8,000 are now available. It is important for concerned residents to note that the funds will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All interested parties can find the eligibility requirements online or can contact SWCAA representatives from local town councils to confirm eligibility and submit applications before starting any work.

Switching to cleaner heat isn't just about saving money; it’s primarily about protecting public health. Wood smoke PM2.5 particles can travel deep into the lungs and bloodstream. These particles carry toxic chemicals—including carbon monoxide, benzene, and formaldehyde—that are dangerous to all residents, especially children, older adults, and those with respiratory conditions like asthma. Smoke from leaky stoves also compromises indoor air quality. Particle pollution is not just a problem for people. Particulates can be carried on the wind, landing in streams or lakes, or getting into the soil. This can lead to long-term effects such as the acidification of streams, coastal water, and large river basins. It also contributes to deficiencies in soil, the damaging of forests and crops, and changes in ecosystem diversity.

For those who cannot change out their wood-burning heatsource, the SWCAA website has a wealth of resources and tips to follow. For example, only burn dry, seasoned firewood (less than 20 percent moisture content). Never burn trash, treated wood, or lumber which release illegal toxins into the air. For more information, including a live Washington State Air Quality Map, visit swcleanair.gov/ws/ or contact the Southwest Clean Air Agency directly by calling 800-633-0709. The Agency is located in Vancouver and can be contacted outside of Clark County Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.