Because so many more of us are at home during the day, and because there is less background noise, we are all noticing the sound and smell of leaf blowers now more than ever. Wilmette restricts the use of gas-powered leaf blowers from May 15 to Sept. 30, but all those loud and dirty machines are completely legal all spring and fall — and enforcing the summer restrictions is challenging. But here are some ideas you can use to help:
If you personally use a leaf blower, consider replacing it with a cleaner, quieter electric version. (Did you see the Ego Leafblower at Going Green Matters?) Use a rake for all or most of your needs, and then use the blower for a limited time. Use the lowest setting possible to get the job done. And remember, much of what is blown out of yards and gardens should ideally be mulched and retained to improve the soil in your yard and to provide habitat for beneficial insects and pollinators.
If you have a yard service, contact the company owner or manager to discuss your concerns about leaf blowers. Tell them you do NOT want a “clean-blown” look for your yard because you know it is bad for your soil and plant health, eliminates critical habitat for insects and pollinators, causes air and noise pollution, and is bad for your health, for their workers’ health and for the health of the planet.
Then, be specific: Ask them to reduce the use of leaf blowers on your property by raking first. Ask them to replace their gas-powered blowers with electric units now, not just after May 15. Ask them to turn down the velocity on gas and electric-powered blowers. (You could even purchase and provide them with an electric blower to use in your yard.) If they use electric equipment, allow them to plug their chargers into one of your outdoor outlets while they work in your yard.
Finally, let them know you will cancel your contract with them if they do not abide by your wishes and respect the summer gas-powered leaf blower restrictions. Once more and more customers like you speak up, the industry will change their practices – but you have to speak up! Then, tell your friends and neighbors about the positive changes you have made and encourage them to do the same!
For more information, visit Quiet Communities and American Green Zone Alliance. See also this local website, The Leaf Blower Alternative.
