Switch out gas powered mowers, blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, and other yard equipment for electric.

Electric equipment is cheaper to operate because it runs on a battery charge, not gasoline, and is easier to maintain because it does not require maintenance like tune-ups and oil or spark plug replacements.

While the noise of many gas-powered mowers or blowers can cause hearing damage to the operator. electric equipment is so quiet you can carry on a conversation while using it.

Leaf blowers are particularly loud and harmful and have been regulated to some degree in the Town of Bedford. Gas powered leaf blowers have a two stroke engine that emits harmful pollutants that can lead to a variety of health problems, are known to be harmful to the operators, and are incredibly noisy.

But even quieter and non-polluting electric blowers disrupt insect and pollinator habitats and stir up dust, pesticides, feces, and pollen into the air we breathe.

Consider how you can use blowers less overall by mulching leaves and grass clippings, raking, and sweeping walkways.

Professional landscapers often have limited knowledge of healthy yard practices and offer mow and blow services and chemical treatments to move quickly, keep prices low, and keep yards looking neat and tidy. However, whatever savings are gained from this kind of yard care there is a great cost to the environment, biodiversity, and the climate.