5 Things to Know This Week

1. We may be in the middle of the winter season, but it's not too early to start planning for the spring planting season. The Gwinnett Extension Service is now taking pre-paid orders for their annual Plant Sale. Varieties of "tried and true" plants are offered including Blueberries, Raspberries, Figs, and Apple trees. Orders are taken through March 16, 2012. There is a one day pick up date of March 29th at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds - 2012 Plant order form. Information about the plants offered are at: 2012 Plants offered. Call 678- 377-4010 for questions.

2. Water and sewer rates have increased effective January 2012. Gwinnett County announced the rate increase will remain in effect until December 2012. For single family residential (per 1,000) gallons, Tier 1 (up to 8,000 gal.) increases from $4.38 to $4.53, Tier 2 rates (8,000 - 12,000 gal) increase from $6.57 to $6.79 and Tier 3 (over 12,000 gal.) increase from $8.76 to $9.06. Sewer rates increase from $5.89 to $6.47. Visit www.gwinnetth2o.com for a complete listing of rates and charges.

3. When you're building a fire this winter, the Gwinnett Extension Services said it's best to avoid using green or freshly cut wood. Green wood will burn, but seasoned wood has more heat value. Since green wood splits easier, cut and stack it now for burning next winter. Call the Gwinnett Extension Service at 678-377-4010 for more information.

4. On Saturday, Jan. 28 Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful will hold its 26th Annual Christmas Tree Recycling event - the largest in Georgia. Over 100 volunteers help chip thousands of trees into mulch for use on the trails in county parks. The event is held at the  soccer fields. To volunteer or for more information contact Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful at 770-822-5187.

5. Business owners take note, a new state law has changed the business license process. Businesses in will soon receive occupation tax certificate renewal forms in the mail, but before certificates can be renewed, applicants must comply with new state requirements that went into effect on Jan. 1. During the 2011 legislative session, the Georgia General Assembly passed the Illegal Immigration Reform and Enforcement Act (House Bill 87), placing new requirements on local governments and businesses to ensure they comply with federal and state immigration laws. For more information visit Gwinnett County's website.