Helping the environment should be a top concern for everyone, and California usually leads the charge.  The Burn Cleaner Fireplace and Woodstove Change out program has begun once again.  The exchange program is being sponsored by Operation Clean Air and the Valley Air District.

Residents in eight counties are asked to turn over their non-compliant wood stoves for a credit voucher to buy a new, more environmentally friendly heathing system.  Vouchers awarded can be used to purchase cleaner, natural gas or propane stoves and fireplace inserts.

Interested residents will need to fill out an application and provide proof of residency, which is usually a recently utility bill.  The only local authorized retailer in the area is Mountain Comforts.  Last year only six people participated in the program.  They are hoping for more this year.  The entire program helped replace more than 300 non-compliant units last year.

There is $108,000 that is available for allocation from the fund this year.  This should fund another 300 replacements.  Residents can fill out applications through April 30, 2008 or until the money runs dry.

Counties that are participating are:  Madera, Fresno, Kings, Merced, Stanislaus, San Joaquin, Tulare and some of Kern.  Only full time residents may apply for the vouchers.

If you would like more information on this worthwhile “green” project, visit www.valleyair.org or call (559) 230-6000.