Cumberland Woodbank - Providing Fuel to Those in Need
Bruce Wildes, Director of the Cumberland Woodbank was our guest and speaker on March 21. The Cumberland Woodbank is an all-volunteer program that collects and processes donated hardwood logs and firewood, and provides firewood or fuel to those in need. Bruce told us that the Woodbank started in 2007 in one small trailer with no heat. Last year, they handled over 100 cords of wood, about 85% of which was sold to generate cash to provide fuel to 35 homes around Cumberland County.
Donors to the woodbank include property owners who have hardwood trees that have come down on their property, as well as developers who are clearing land. Their wood yard is located at RA Pierce Excavating in North Yarmouth and they are currently building inventory for next year. Due to the lower cost of fuel this winter compared to past years, they have been able to set aside some funds against future needs.
Many local companies, like Idexx, provide volunteers each year to help process the donated wood. Other local businesses have donated equipment to allow the wood to be more easily processed, stacked and transported. In addition, some equipment has been purchased with grants.
In January 2014, the Cumberland Woodbank launched a campaign to raise $20,000 to fund an endowment. Fundraising continues with their goal in site. This endowment will be used specifically to fund fuel assistance in perpetuity. Each year they hold a “bankquet” to raise funds for operations and to add to the endowment fund.
There are about 40 woodbanks across the United States, with six in Maine. Bruce stated that he would like to see a new one in the Westbrook-Gorham area and one in the Saco area.
L-R: Ethan Johnson, Bruce Wildes, Jason Beever