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Thursday, February 26, 2009

Environment - Wood stoves and wood-fired outdoor boilers still a problem

The ILB has had dozens of entries, going back as far as Dec. 2005, on the regulation of wood-fired outdoor boiler in Indiana. IDEM originally was going to do it, then backed off and left local government to deal with the problem on its own.

Today WTCA Radio, "Marshall County and the surrounding area" had this item:

02/26/09 This week City Councilman Mike Delp brought forth an issue to the Common Council that a constituent recently brought to his attention.

Delp said, “I’m seeking your words of wisdom on wood burning stoves and the smoke issue they include.” He mentioned that the Council had discussed the issue a couple of years ago. He said that a resident living in the North Michigan Street area called complaining of the smoke that comes from the wood burners. Delp said they lady had her clean laundry hanging on her line and had to rewash it because of the smoke.

Councilman Chuck Ripley was on the Council when the issue was discussed several years ago. He said, “We looked at the issue and couldn’t see anything to tackle the wood burning units.”

Building Commissioner Keith Hammons explained that city code requires the smoke stack to be at least 2 feet higher than any roofline within 10 feet of the unit.

Delp said it appears that some citizens using the wood burners are not burning seasoned wood, but rather green pallets. He asked about the smoke being an air pollution issue.

No action was taken but the City Council may need to look for a solution if they receive more complaints.

What city is this? The story doesn't say, but I'd guess Plymouth.

Posted by Marcia Oddi on February 26, 2009 02:53 PM
Posted to Environment