I live in the Forest Highlands neighborhood of Lake Oswego and sit on the neighborhood association board, as well as the city’s sustainability advisory board and sustainability network.

I’ve been so discouraged by the constant noise and fumes from gas-powered landscape equipment. These gas-powered tools, especially blowers, are harmful to the people operating them. They produce exhaust fumes with high levels of known carcinogens like benzene, butadiene, formaldehyde, along with fine particulates associated with respiratory, cardiovascular, and neurological harm. They send dust into the air that can contain pollen, mold, animal feces, heavy metals, and chemicals from herbicides and pesticides. The high-decibel, low-frequency noise they generate causes hearing loss. The noise travels farther and penetrates walls more easily than higher-pitched sounds.

Happily, there is an easy solution. I use rakes and brooms. I leave the leaves in landscaped areas, where they retain moisture in the soil, decompose to provide nutrients for the trees and plants, act as a springtime weed suppressant, and provide critical habitat for pollinators like bees and butterflies. I have purchased an electric lawn mower and trimmer. I have been extremely satisfied with their performance. They’re exponentially quieter, cleaner, and healthier. Doing so has benefited me, my neighborhood, and the environment.

I personally encourage Lake Oswego to follow the lead of Portland and ban gas-powered leaf blowers in our city, (“Ban on gas leaf blowers passed in Portland; gradual phase-out begins in 2026,” March 13).

Mark Puhlman, Lake Oswego

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