The Comox Valley Regional District encourages qualifying home owners to exchange their old woodstoves for high-efficiency, low-emission appliances that are Canadian Standard Association or Environmental Protection Agency approved.The reward is a $250 rebate.  The wood stove exchange program runs from Feb. 11 until April 30 with rebates offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. Rebates are available to owners of legal units in the Comox Valley who use wood for their primary heat source and who replace old wood stoves.   Newer fireplaces burn one-third less wood than old stoves, and reduce the risk of chimney fires and smoke emissions by up to 90 per cent.The $250 rebate also applies to those trading for a pellet stove or energy-efficient gas stove/fireplace.  鈥淭he effects of old, inefficient wood stoves impact the health of homeowners, their neighbours and contribute to the overall air quality within the community,鈥� said Michael Zbarsky, CVRD鈥檚 manager of transit and sustainability.In March and April homeowners can take advantage of additional incentives at Comox Fireplace & Patio and at Bennett Sheet Metal & Heating.   For more information visit www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/woodstove, or contact Patty Rose at 250-898-1086 or woodstove@comoxvalleyrd.ca.鈥� Comox Valley Regional District