Woodstove Program
Approximately half the homes in the greater Olympic Peninsula and Coastal area of Washington have some type of wood burning heating device, ranging from wood stoves to fireplaces. There is an increasing body of scientific evidence that associates particulate matter pollution from wood stoves with a variety of health impacts. The very young, the elderly and people who suffer from circulatory and respiratory illnesses are among those most severely impacted.
In 1987 the Olympia, Lacey and Tumwater urban area was determined to be in violation of federal air quality standards for particulate matter (PM10). Since that time a variety of State and Local Woodstove Regulations have been adopted to help minimize the impact of wood stove emissions on public health. When monitoring data indicate that pollution levels are rising, ORCAA may declare an indoor Burn Ban which restricts certain burning activities in specific areas.
Those among us who rely on our woodstoves for heat, or otherwise enjoy the use of wood burning appliances or fireplaces, can do several things to minimize the impact of our burning activities on our neighbors.
EASY STEPS TO SMART WOOD HEATING
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Burn only clean, untreated wood.
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Use only dry, properly seasoned wood.
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For complete combustion, give your fire plenty of air.
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Check out your chimney - lots of smoke means your fire needs air.
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Be aware of current burning conditions. During stagnant periods, an Indoor Burn Ban may be in effect.
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Make sure you are using a EPA Certified Woodstove. A list of all certified woodstoves is available here.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
Contact Stephanie at (360) 586-1044, ext 110 (in Washington State 1-800-422-5623 ext 110).