What many citizens might not know is that this offer also applies to the purchase of a cleaner, non-wood-burning appliance, such as a propane or electrical unit.

Parky's Heating & Ventilation is also back on board, offering a 15 per cent discount on the purchase of a new woodstove this March.

Old stoves pump out nearly 20 to 30 times more smoke than newer ones, says owner Doug Parkinson. They also burn up far more wood than new efficient woodstoves.

By exchanging woodstoves, homeowners can help decrease Golden's creeping air pollution and, by eliminating creosote, ensure the safety of their own homes. Creosote, which is formed when smoke and cold air mix, causes chimney fires. New woodstoves use a reburn technology, which all but eliminates smoke from even entering the chimney in the first place.

The exchange program, started in 2004, runs all year. So far, 50 people have signed up for the rebate since the program's inception, according to Town building inspector Adam Bux.

The program also includes a 'Nominate Your Neighbor' initiative, allowing residents to notify the Town when they think a neighbor is in need of a woodstove exchange. The Town then issues a gentle letter to the household informing them of the rebate offer