Salem, Ore. — Governor Kate Brown announced today a $1.5 million plan to replace wood stoves and fireplaces in an effort to encourage economic development and improve air quality in Lake and Klamath counties. The Regional Solutions program will be used to fund the installation of certified and non-wood burning devices, such as ductless heat pumps, and home weatherization.
“This program demonstrates that, by working together, we can achieve both economic and environmental goals,” said Governor Brown. “We are ensuring working families can continue to heat their homes while creating less air pollution and ultimately allowing greater business expansion in the region.”
Open fireplaces and residential uncertified wood stoves significantly contribute to air pollution. Their use is one reason why the communities of Lakeview and Klamath Falls currently exceed the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for fine particulates.
This makes it difficult for local businesses to get permits from the Department of Environmental Quality and creates a barrier to economic development.
The program will begin in May 2015. Funds will be available until they are depleted.
“This is vital to the health and economic well-being of Oregonians in Klamath and Lake counties,” said Jane O’Keefe, of South Central Regional Solutions.
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