City of Harbor Springs and other northern michigan communities NEEDS to consider a ban on leaf blowers. Leaf blowers are well known as a source of noise pollution, air pollution and overall degredation of our precious ecosystem. Facts show that leaf blowers blow so hard that they stir up dust, pesticides, herbicides, lead, feces as well as exhaust emmisions from the blower itself into the so called "clean up north air". This air pollution is unsafe for anyone, but it is particularly dangerous for those with asthma, young children, the elderly, those with a compromised immune system and even our furry friends.
In a region that prides itself as a relaxing haven for those looking to retreat and rejuvenate, the excessive use of leaf blowers is highly incompatible in trying to maintain northern michigan as just that, a pristine place to relax.
In my own experience, the leaf blower use around me scares off wildlife, befouls the precious air I breathe and takes away any semblance of peace that is around me. Lets keep our beautiful region just that, clean, beautiful and most importantly, QUIET.
If we can get leaf blowers banned, we can once again enjoy northern michigan's clean and fresh air, we can enjoy beautiful fall and spring days with significantly less noise pollution and for all those suffering from asthma and other respiratory conditions may just be able to breathe easier. May we all be able to breathe easier for that matter, as leaf blowers are just as bad, if not worse than secondhand cigarette smoke.
