Resources

We've been burning firewood at our house for 2 years now, and after last year's issues of stacking (and-restacking the parts that fell over) firewood, I decided that it was time to build something a little more solid. We considered building a large lean-to to put the firewood under, but the cost of lumber to build it was in excess of $800 - about how much we spend for firewood to burn for the entire winter.

2016 Government Directory

Brodhead Watershed - what to do when you believe there is a problem with a stream

 Do Not Call Lists

• National (permanent)
• State (every 5 years)

Learn how to sharpen a chainsaw blade by hand using a file from Master Shipwright Louis Sauzedde.

If we are missing any companies in the following lists, please use the feedback form to let us know!

Designed with a cottage look, this small shed has clapboard siding on the front, a double door, a ramp to allow access for motorized yard equipment, a window to provide light, and a flower box for decoration.

We've learned that the average basement in Cresco (Zip 18326) has a radon level of 5.6, and the first floor average of 2.4  Since homes are generally only tested for radon when being purchased, we encourage long-term homeowners to have their homes tested proactively.   You can check the PA Website for any zip code's radon test result averages here.

Regarding Propane - I live in Mountainhome and heat using both propane and firewood. We bought a 500 gallon tank (don't rent!) and top it off every August and January. Since we own the tank, I can call 15 or 20 propane suppliers and the phone call goes like this:

"Hi, I'm calling for a price on propane. I own my 500 gallon tank and it's around 30% full." Then they give me a price. I say "Thanks, I'll call you back."

Rinse, lather, repeat, for each Propane company on my list. Just a few weeks ago, I ordered from Lochlan's for $1.50/gallon. In my experience, you have to price-shop each time you fill the tank, because a different company will be cheapest each time.

Here's a link to the list of propane suppliers that I call.  (If there are any missing companies please let me know and I'd be happy to add them.) It sounds like most people who rent tanks are paying closer to $2.50 - $2.60/gallon lately.

Barrett is a second-class township.

A second-class township usually has three supervisors, elected at large for six-year terms. A referendum may allow a second-class township's board of supervisors to expand to five members. Some townships have home-rule charters, which allow for a mayor/council form of government.

Source: Wikipedia (Local Government in Pennsylvania)

Start a mini farm on a quarter acre or less, provide 85 percent of the food for a family of four and earn an income.

Mini Farming describes a holistic approach to small-area farming that will show you how to produce 85 percent of an average family’s food on just a quarter acre—and earn $10,000 in cash annually while spending less than half the time that an ordinary job would require. Even if you have never been a farmer or a gardener, this book covers everything you need to know to get started: buying and saving seeds, starting seedlings, establishing raised beds, soil fertility practices, composting, dealing with pest and disease problems, crop rotation, farm planning, and much more. Because self-sufficiency is the objective, subjects such as raising backyard chickens and home canning are also covered along with numerous methods for keeping costs down and production high. Materials, tools, and techniques are detailed with photographs, tables, diagrams, and illustrations.

Buy now on Amazon

Basic Crime Prevention

Practice crime safety measures that eliminate opportunities for criminals. Encourage others to join in crime prevention efforts. Aid others when they become victims of crime. Work for a better and safer neighborhood through protecting and honoring the rights of others.  

Important: The purpose of a community watch is to help the police do their jobs.  Do not be a vigilante.  

Disaster Preparedness & Resiliency

Learn skills to prepare for man-made and natural disasters. Local, state and the federal government do a lot to prepare for disasters, but neighbors need to be ready to care for each other.

Build a Stronger Community

In our fast-paced world, we don’t spend enough time learning about our neighbors.  Watch groups give community members a reason to get together and talk about making their community a better place.  Neighborhood Watch activities are a fun way for community members to get to know each other while making a difference.

We are compiling the following information to make it easier for fellow citizens to obtain information about our local government and supervisors.

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Lehigh Valley Hospital - Pocono

(Formerly Pocono Medical Center)

St. Luke's University - Monroe Campus

Public Service Announcement - Please Share!

The following is an online guide for identifying and treating Lyme disease.  Topics include antibiotics, nutritional supplements, tick removal, affected areas, rash identification, doctor referrals, support groups, stress management, diet recommendations, and the history of Lyme disease.  

• Monroe County Conservation District
• PA Association for Sustainable Agriculture
• Heritage Conservancy
• The Nature Conservancy
• PA Department of Conservation of Natural Resources
• PA Environmental Council
• Brodhead Watershed Association

More info: Pennsylvania Ski Areas Association