Gas lawnmowers; big polluters

Think about greener lawn care; A typical gas lawnmower creates as much pollution in one hour of operation as forty late model cars. A recent swedish study concluded an hour of lawn mowing was equivelant to the emissions of driving your car for one hundered hours. Small gas engines simply produce more pollution than those of cars, add up all our gas mowers, and you have the second largest contributor of damage to our air.

I have owned an electric mower, and yes, I found being tethered by a power card more than annoying. It was a nuisance mowing around the many fruit trees, and beds in my large backyard.I always felt it was just a matter of time before I ran over my cord, the whole thing made me slightly nervous. Having said this, I realise they are great for some yards, and many people love them. Further to this, mowers are avaliable with re-chargable batteries.

The new solar mowers have my attention, no more pulling those starter cords, never mind it's quiet, cord free, and uses renewable energy. The prices are reasonable, and as best I can tell from my research, it seems they do a reasonable job. In the past some machines were both expensive, and wimpy, for all but the postage stamp size yards.

I do love my push mower, but have to admit mine gives a rather shaggy cut. I actually like the excercise it affords, and the peace of mind that I am being quiet if I mow Sunday morning. I had been considering looking for a more deluxe model, but now....hmmm, perhaps the solar ones are the thing to keep my eye on. http://www.solarispowerproducts.com/green-facts.htm

Garry Oak habitat, Victoria, BC

Did you know that one of Canada’s richest ecosystems is also one of its most endangered? Garry oak ecosystems are enchantingly beautiful and high in biodiversity. They are unique to a small part of southwestern British Columbia, where less than 5% of the habitat remains in a near-natural condition. At least 118 species of plants, mammals, reptiles, birds, butterflies, dragonflies and bugs are at risk of extinction in Garry oak and associated ecosystems. Several species have already been eliminated. The Garry Oak Ecosystems Recovery Team (GOERT) and its partners are working to save these endangered species and the habitats they need for survival. Your help is needed. You can play a valuable part in our comprehensive recovery program, now underway.

http://www.goert.ca/

this is from the Goert site, check it out

Sandra