April 5, 2005
TO: Board of Selectmen (Billings, Mattes, Taylor)
RE: “Leaf Blowers” – environmental impact
Eight months ago, I wrote a letter (attached) asking that attention be paid to the environmental impact of ‘leaf blowers.’ I was informed that the matter would be considered but no further action appears to have been taken.
The season for blowers is back. The photos attached taken this morning are a reminder of the ways in which the machines are used – in this case to blow away winter accumulation of dust and sand. The cloud of dust is seen blowing over the road onto cars and, the building, and the Whistle Stop eating area.
At least 300 communities nationwide have banned leaf blowers as environmentally unacceptable. “A gasoline-powered leaf blower generates as much tailpipe emissions in one hour as an automobile does over 350 miles.” At minimum it would be appropriate for the Selectmen to consider (a) banning use of the leaf blowers on Town of Lincoln property and (b) to open a public discussion about banning them within the Town limits. The counter argument will be that “it will put people out of work”. That argument is spurious as hand labor with brush or rake can be as effective (see photo also).
Your response to this letter with a suggested follow-up would be appreciated.
Respectfully yours,
DD:mps