The Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) wants to help orchardists in the Lower Similkameen and South Okanagan reduce air pollution.
Orchardists removing blocks of trees can contact the RDOS to organize the grinding of trunks and roots. The RDOS will pay 75 per cent of the cost to grind.
Historically, orchardists removing blocks of trees for replant had no other choice but to burn stumps and trunks. These green materials don’t burn well, creating smoke pollution in our sensitive Okanagan and Similkameen air sheds. To assist orchardists and improve air quality, the RDOS subsidizes the grinding of orchard stumps and trees.
Orchardists can contact the RDOS for a free quote. The contractor will come on site to figure out how the grinder will access the property and where pulled trees should be placed. Growers will then pay their portion of the costs before chipping starts.
The program is open to growers in Oliver, Keremeos and Electoral Areas “A”, “B”, “C” and “G”. Orchardists are encouraged to sign up for assistance this fall. The RDOS may not offer a spring 2014 tree chipping program.
Orchardists removing full trees can contact the RDOS for more information or to register. Please contact Cameron Baughen, RDOS Coordinator at 250-490-4203 or info@rdos.bc.ca.