Heavy Pollen Season Ahead
This pollen season is expected to be the longest on record in Oregon, with warmer temperatures causing more plants to release pollen at once. Experts say simple, low-cost steps at home can improve indoor air quality and reduce energy bills.
Jami Seymore with Energy Trust of Oregon says high pollen levels can clog HVAC filters faster, making systems work harder.
“That means your system has to work even harder to get that same amount of air pushed through, and that uses more energy. So check your filter maybe about every two to three weeks rather than every few months and replace it if it looks dirty.”
Seymore says to use the correct filter for your system and seal gaps around doors and windows to keep pollen out. She also recommends keeping windows closed during high pollen days and switching thermostats to the “fan only” setting.
“That means the air distribution and filtration keeps that clean air inside and it uses less energy than say a full system cycle.”
Portable HEPA air filters can also help, and Energy Trust offers a $75 discount on some Energy Star air purifiers.
Members Needed for Ad-Hoc Committee
The City of Florence is forming an ad-hoc committee to help plan and design a future mobility hub aimed at improving how people get around the community. The project focuses on expanding options for walking, biking, public transit, and other modes of transportation. Lane Transit District has secured state grant funding to support planning and research for the project, which is also listed as a priority in the city’s 2025 to 2027 work plan. The committee will help evaluate feasibility, shape design ideas, and improve accessibility and connectivity for future transportation services. City staff expect the group to meet five to six times. Officials are inviting community members from a wide range of backgrounds, including those facing transportation challenges, to participate in helping guide the project.
Supporting Childcare
For the month of April, the Siuslaw Region is coming together to support local childcare providers and early learning educators through the “Spring Into Action” Supply Drive. The effort is organized by the Siuslaw Vision Child Care Working Group and aims to collect learning materials, cleaning supplies, and fun items for young children in the community. Participating providers include Wildflower Montessori School, Bright Beginnings Christian Preschool, Head Start of Lane County, and several others, all of which have identified specific needs. Requested items include crayons, books, puzzles, sensory materials, and gift cards. Donations can be dropped off at multiple locations around Florence, including Banner Bank, Fred Meyer, Grocery Outlet, and the Florence Visitors Center. Organizers say the drive is a simple way to support local families and help children learn and grow.
