The occasional chill is in the air these days, reminding us that autumn is on our doorstep getting ready to knock. At this liminal time of the year, much is afoot and calling for our attention.
Knowing where to best focus our energies can be particularly challenging. We might take our cue from nature and prepare in the same ways its creatures do.
Bears are packing on insulation and we could be gathering wood. It’s also a great time to squirrel away provisions for the winter when farms will be less abundant.
Planning ahead for efficiently heating our homes over the colder months can start now. If wood is your main source of heat, ensure you have a sufficient supply of it that is seasoned.
Stacking it so that airflow allows for continued drying can reduce unplanned for creosote build up. Ideal moisture levels of 12 to 15 per cent can be detected with a moisture meter – contact [email protected] for our limited supply of free meters.
Another tip is to knock two pieces of firewood together – this should result in a hollow sound, rather than a dull thud, which would mean it is too wet.
There is still time to take advantage of rebates available to those replacing an inefficient wood stove with an EPA/CPA-certified model, a pellet appliance or an electric fireplace insert. Rebates are also available for adding a heat pump to a home that already has an EPA/CPA-certified wood stove.
Learn more on the qathet Regional District website (qathet.ca) to see if you qualify. Certified stoves can reduce your emissions by up to 70 per cent and the wood needed to heat your home by up to 30 per cent.
As our outdoor storage moves indoors in the coming months, we benefit from getting organized to make better use of our space. Growing little ones are no doubt outgrowing clothes, sports equipment and toys. Passing them along to friends with younger ones, and selling or donating these items will keep you from tripping over them all winter long.
Recycling can get a little out of hand when it moves indoors, so having an organized system for your household can save many headaches.
Stackable bins save space. We suggest having separate bins for paper, containers (metal, plastic and plastic-lined paper), glass containers, refundables (all beverage containers), plastic bags and flexible packaging, foam, and finally, one for all the other small recyclables that can be taken to local recycling depots such as household batteries, light bulbs, plastic pens and cork.
Stocking up your pantry is made easier with the abundance that farms offer this time of year. Local farmers are anxious to get the produce they’ve worked hard to grow into people’s pantries before they expire from exposure to the elements.
Squash, potatoes and other root vegetables can be stored for months in the right conditions. Beans and cucumbers can be pickled.
Late summer fruit can be dried, canned, frozen or made into jams. If food preservation isn’t your thing, the farmers’ market hosts all manner of preserves for your basket this time of year – the Fall Fair on September 23 and 24 being the peak of such abundance.
Planning for a warm and well-fed winter starts now.
Let’s Talk Trash is contracted by qathet Regional District to deliver its waste reduction education program. For more information, email [email protected] or go to LetsTalkTrash.ca
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