News Release – Pt. 2

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"Echo Incorporated, as the world's largest manufacturer of backpack and half-held leaf blowers is particularly pleased with the "LINK" program," said Robin Pendergrast, spokesman for Echo Incorporated. "We feel that the practical application of a 150-foot-buffer zone, combined with a one-half throttle utilization in this buffer zone, is practical and extremely sensitive to the effective use of this and all lawn and garden equipment. Along with our "Be Smart" program which supports safe, practical and sensitive use of all lawn and garden equipment, we're extremely encouraged by the efforts which have been set forth by "LINK."

Input from professionals helped address the two biggest misconceptions -- that no one was home during the day and that a compromise would cost homeowners. The "LINK" compromise shows that many lawn care professionals recognize the time has come to help those who are hurting and work with communities. "It makes those landscapers good businessmen and we would certainly use their services," said (Name of Resident #2).

The key to working the half throttle approach is not just moving debris. Some crews become even more efficient with their blowers by utilizing an "organize and drag" approach (getting the leaves on tarps and bringing them to the curb). Others are plowing the heaviest top layer and then cleaning up the remaining debris with a blower to cut down the load. Simply turning on the machine and running it at the maximum level is inefficient.

"We would like to see every landscaper working in the (Name of Township) area send their business card or, if they don't have one, send their name and address to (Address/P.O. Box of person assembling listing)," said (Name of Resident #3).

(Name of Local Politician) observed: "Whenever the community and the private sector cooperate on a voluntary basis, it's a real win-win situation."

"LINK" has also received applause from the (Insert State Department of Environmental Protection - DEP). "The department supports voluntary, pollution prevention efforts to reduce emissions from gasoline-powered equipment, especially during the summer ozone season," DEP Representative (Name of Spokesperson) said. The combustion of gasoline results in the emission of volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides, which react in the presence of heat and sunlight to form ground-level ozone, a lung irritant.

First developed in Abington, PA, a suburb outside of Philadelphia, "LINK" is being spread across the country to unite approximately 400 communities working on leaf blower distress with a common goal.

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