Offer alternatives to those affected

One solution to burning yard waste is composting. This can be achieved by using bins or, if the property is large enough, setting aside an area for the process to occur naturally.

I live on a treed acre and have a chipper that takes care of most branches. Anything too big for the chipper goes in the firewood pile for my certified stove fuel.

I also have compost bins and love the “black gold” they produce.

Perhaps The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency could promote alternative methods and even offer rebates on chippers like Puget Sound Energy does for fluorescent light bulbs and energy efficient appliances.

Another option would be contracting with firms that make compost and again offering a reduced fee incentive.

Garden Clubs might be interested in collecting grass clippings for their composting members.

There are alternatives, but before anything is banned, how about offering viable alternatives to those affected?

Let’s solve the problem, not just have a new law that hurts the landowner.

Katherine Fritts

Whidbey Island