LANE COUNTY, Ore. – With the arrival of colder weather, many residents in Lane County are turning to wood-burning stoves to heat their homes. However, the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) is urging the community to be mindful of air quality impacts as they rely on these heat sources during the winter months.
From October 1 to May 31, LRAPA issues daily burn advisories in Eugene, Springfield, Oakridge, and their surrounding urban growth boundaries. These advisories aim to inform homeowners about weather and air flow conditions that may affect how airborne smoke disperses. During periods of stagnant air, particularly on still, cold nights and early mornings, pollution levels can rise quickly, potentially deteriorating air quality.
LRAPA officials note that the advisories range from “green,” which indicates favorable burning conditions and good air flow, to “red,” which signals poor air circulation. When the air is rated as “red,” only those who rely on wood stoves as their primary heat source are encouraged to burn wood.
Matt Sorensen, public affairs manager for LRAPA, explained the challenge of winter air stagnation, likening the valley to a pot with a lid. “When that happens, every chimney sending up thick visible smoke is negatively impacting the air we share in the pot,” Sorensen said. “By working together and being mindful of when and how we burn, we can minimize negative air quality impacts for everyone.”
To help reduce smoke and pollution, LRAPA recommends using dry, seasoned wood, which burns hotter and produces less smoke. Homeowners are advised to maintain small, hot fires with visible flames and to keep dampers open. Regular chimney maintenance, including annual cleanings, is also recommended. Additionally, residents are strongly discouraged from burning garbage or household waste, as these materials create harmful toxic smoke.
By following these simple guidelines, Lane County residents can contribute to cleaner air while staying warm during the colder months. LRAPA’s daily burn advisories provide an important tool for keeping the region’s air quality at healthy levels and ensuring that the winter heating season remains safe for all.
