NTWG

The wood burning season is well underway and to this point has been what I would call a successful non-traditional wood gathering (NTWG) experiment.  So far we've tried using pine cones for kindin' (see previous post).  We have also tried cutting up stove-sized pieces of non-treated pallet wood.  They burn great but should only be used as a supplement to traditional wood as they burn VERY hot!  They are great for getting a roaring fire up and going but quick.  We also got lucky and caught a high-line clearing crew working in the area who had pieces that were too large to go through their chipper.  The wood that I picked up was in front of a property owner who did not want the wood and in fact wanted the crew to haul it off.  They were more than happy to have me pick it up and save them some time and effort, and all I had to do was ask.  I've also picked up a fair amount of kindlin' from a local hardwood company that leaves a pile of their culls free for the taking.  While going through the pile the other day I had a good conversation with fellow wood scavenger who suggested checking out a rail road tie company who also leaves a pile of end pieces (untreated of course) for those who want them.  I'm sure there will be other opportunities that will arise in the future and any and all are a welcome chance to pick up supplemental fuel for the trusty wood stove.  So keep your eyes peeled for stacks of burnable, (often free for the taking) material.  As long as you are not having to go out of your way and the providers are willing for you to take it off their hands...why not!!!