Many landscapers in our area continue to use two-stroke gas-powered leaf blowers that forward-looking communities are increasingly rejecting. Used around our neighborhoods, schools, and public spaces,  they generate:

1)  Noise that far exceeds health and safety standards

2)  Toxic, carcinogenic air pollution

3)  Carbon dioxide, a major greenhouse gas

4)  Fuel spillage and waste that contaminate our soil and water 

These practices come with high costs to our health and environment, and interfere with the enjoyment of our homes and community. Legislation limiting their use has been enacted in over 150 communities in the US. 

After considerable research and consultation, Lincoln’s Leaf Blower Study Committee, a subcommittee of the Conservation Commission, is proposing a by-law at Town meeting that would regulate the use of leaf blowers as follows:

1)  Gas leaf blowers may be used during specified weeks for spring and fall clean-ups.

2)  Electric leaf blowers may be used during the spring, summer and fall.

3)  No leaf blowers may be used during the winter.

A public meeting will be held at 7 pm, February 28th in the Donaldson Room at Town Hall to discuss the proposal.  We urge all residents to attend.

Please let us know if you agree with the intent of this by-law to improve public health, environmental quality, and quality of life for residents in Lincoln. 

•    A copy of the proposed by-law can be found at www.lincolnleaves.org.

•    Questions or comments to the Leaf Blower Study Committee can be submitted to quietlincoln@gmail.com.