Why not branch out and learn how to use locally sourced biomass (aka: trees) to heat your homestead? Join Clint Pinder, of Firewood Manitoba, for this exploration of homestead heating. You’ll head out to the forest and learn about sourcing, harvesting, felling, processing, seasoning, storing and burning your fuel – and even how you can utilize the ashes. Chainsaw safety and personal protective equipment will also be discussed.
Learn about various heating appliances; the pros and cons of wood stoves, pellet stoves, fireplaces, wood/electric furnaces, indoor/outdoor wood boilers. Cost, area heated, fuel type, and best fit for your budget & homestead.
Finally nail down what a cord of wood actually is, as well as differences between hardwood and softwood, how and why to season wood, and the best places and practices for stacking your fuel.
Hands-on: Participants will walk through the forest to assess firewood sources, perhaps cutting some felled wood. Some participants will try out axes, splitting mauls, wedges and chainsaws, supervised one on one with the instructor. Some will try carrying, throwing, stacking wood.
Accessibility: This workshop will take place in the forest, which could be less accessible than the pasture areas of the farm. Participants may take part in physical activities involved in processing firewood – these are entirely optional.