Dear editor,
I am a staunch supporter of wood stove use in the Comox Valley. I have been enjoying the benefits of wood burning since moving to the Comox Valley 22 years ago. My wife and her family have been using wood heat for at least 50 years.
I value my wood stove and the ability to burn wood for many reasons: financial, health and enjoyment.
I am fortunate to have a supply of free firewood. I only take what is already on the ground. The expenses attached to getting firewood are time and gas. Burning wood saves me exorbitant amounts in electricity. We can heat our house and as a bonus we can dry our wet outdoor clothing and laundry. The health benefits are even better. As a man with diabetes, the warmth from the wood heat penetrates to the core of my body. Electric nor gas heat compares to wood heating your bones.
The exercise I get by cutting, splitting, stacking and transporting wood attributes to my better health. I enjoy my time outdoor. I lift, I bend, I stretch. I work up a sweat and I get my heart rate pumping. I do this bit by bit, as my body allows. This light workout allows me to release any stress I might be dealing with. And when school is not in, my teenage son is my number one helper.
Enjoyment from a wood heat is second to none. My wife loves to read a book and sip wine in front of the crackling fire. When friends visit we socialize by the fire, I enjoy sitting on the couch with my cat and dog watching the flames dance. It is good for the soul.
I do understand there are those who suffer from asthma. I do understand there is a concern for air quality in Courtenay. And, I do know there are many who supplement their electricity expense by using wood saving them many dollars per month.
People who burn wood do have a responsibility to burn dry, seasoned wood.
Perhaps some should upgrade their wood burning device to a new, efficient model. We all have our part to play.
Marcel Gagne
Courtenay