Mardi Boettcher's Blog

The ‘Ukiah Gleaners’, a project of the Mendocino Environmental Center doing its great work again this fall.  Many gardens have been visited and local people have signed up to help picking the fruitful bounty of Ukiah.  Apples, pears, grapes, figs and plums, which otherwise may have gone to waste, have all been picked and sent to the Food Bank, Plowshares and the Ukiah Senior Center.

This is an inspiring example of what makes the Ukiah Valley community so special.  There is a widespread commitment to taking care of the members of the communtiy and to enjoying the beauty and bounty our natural resources.

The biggest gleaning events were two pickings at the Alex Thomas Orchards on Perkins Street.  More than 100 people turned up for the two events which more than 1,500 pounds of pears to the food bank.

Hannah Bird, co-coordinator of the Ukiah Gleaners said, “They were such lovely events with young and old present to do the picking.  One ‘gleaner’ in particular came up to tell me that not only did he think it was a great idea, but he also felt that he was actually part of something’.  The sense of community spirit really glowed.  I want to thank the Thomas family for allowing us to pick these delicious pears, it was sad to think these orchards may not be here in the future.”

The final gleanings of the season are set to take place over the next few weeks.  To get involved call Hannah at 391-0044 or e-mail  hannah.bird at gmail.com

To learn how water-intensive your lifestyle is and how to lessen your “water footprint,” visit www.waterfootprint.org                  

This is especially timely this year as we are rationing water in the Ukiah Valley.  I anticipate that soon the various water agencies will be able to work together to increase the storage capacity for our valley and yet, we can do our part by reducing our “water footprint.”

Enjoy!

Now you may have a big incentive to “Go Green.”  There is a new 2009 law that gives you uncapped and unlimited tax credits for installing qualified solar, wind, or geothermal energy improvements in your home, or other residence.  For each 2009  dollar you spend, you earn a 30 percent tax credit and there is no limit on the credit.  You have plenty of time too, because the credit does not expire until December 31, 2016!  Tax credits are the best because they reduce your taxes dollar for dollar.  See your CPA for all the details.

Instead of replacing your air conditioner or furnace filter several times a year, consider replacing the disposable filter with a permanent filter.  These filters can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner or garden hose and mild household detergents.  Plus, these filters carry a lifetime warranty, saving you money in the long-term.