RDOS helps agriculturists chip trees

PENTICTON – Agriculturists removing trees or vines this Fall should contact the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) by Oct. 7 for a free chipping quote. The RDOS provides assistance to growers in the south Okanagan and Similkameen Valleys removing agricultural trees.

Burning trees is a common source of air pollutants in BC valleys. Smoke from fires contains particles that can harm lungs.

The RDOS has been assisting growers chip agricultural trees for the last decade. Chips can be used onsite to help retain moisture and add nutrients slowly to the soil. Air quality has been significantly improved by having growers chip instead of burning.

To help extend the program, the grower pays only one quarter of the cost of agricultural tree chipping. The RDOS pays the remaining three quarters of the cost. All the money paid by growers goes to allowing more properties access to the chipping program.

Agriculturists can request a free quote by contacting the RDOS at 250-490-4203, toll free 1-877-610-3737 or e-mail info@rdos.bc.ca.

The chipping contractor will visit the property and discuss the work with the grower. To ensure work is completed this Fall growers should contact the RDOS by Friday Oct. 7 for a free quote. Agriculturists calling after that date can still access the program but work may be completed in 2017 depending on availability of the chipper.