Placer Resource Conservation District Chipper Program resumes, but there's a waiting list

The Placer Resource Conservation District's Chipper Program is back following a hiatus since spring. And it's popular, to the point there's a backlog because of the time away due to the COVID-19 pandemic. "We have to do some catching up," said Cordi Craig, conservation project coordinator. "The chipper program is one of the most successful, and people are utilizing it, which is great." The program restarted Oct. 1, now with just one crew of four responding to process brush and help residents "improve defensible space and fuel reduction on their property," Craig said. The cost has increased to $80 per hour, with a minimum of one hour of work. Service fees may be waived for those with a disabled person vehicle placard or low household income determined by Placer County Department of Housing and Urban Development, according to a news release. "It's just reflecting the difference in project cost," Craig said. To make an appointment, call 530-889-0111, ext. 3, and leave your name, phone number, site address and location of the brush pile.