Debate Over Leaf Blowers

Re “Man’s Quiet Leaf Blower Brings Forth Joyful Noise,” Jan. 8:

Necessity is the mother of invention. For years now, the manufacturers of leaf blowers have continued to ignore the public’s justifiable anger at their noisy and environmentally destructive devices, leaving the low-income gardeners as the lightning rods for all the heat.

Now Gody Sanchez has solved the problem without a million-dollar research program or expensive solutions. The use of an auto radiator fan is brilliant--these are extremely reliable devices, easily available and inexpensive. The choice of an auto battery is absolutely genius--just an ordinary battery that the gardener can take home and pop on a recharger overnight. I hope Sanchez can capitalize on his genius.

GARY GOLDMAN

Los Angeles

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The Times is presenting one-sided coverage of the leaf-blower issue. You are doing a “politically correct” story.

The damage to the environment is being overlooked. We are entitled to live without noise and air pollution. The smell of gasoline fumes, the constant, unabating roar of the blowers, the dust and grime covering plants and being inhaled by all are worthy of mention.

Ninety percent of leaves would be removed by lawn mowers if gardeners were efficient. Rakes would do the rest.

ANNETTE SHANKS

Los Angeles

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Let’s not falter in our efforts to clean up our environment. There is no doubt that leaf blowers pollute with particulates and noise. Banning these polluters would not put gardeners out of business. They might have to work more or even hire a helper for an hour. They can charge an appropriate amount for this extra effort and cost. Their customers are not poor and can afford to pay a bit more for this good cause.

SHELDON COBURN

Marina del Rey

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Why haven’t customers been asked what they want? If they want no leaf blower, then they should hire a gardener who doesn’t use a leaf blower. Since only affluent communities are objecting to this use, let them pay more for the gardener’s service. The rest of us, mostly ordinary people with limited incomes and moderate gardens, are not objecting.

Please let the gardeners do their jobs--they are the ones who keep our city fairly clean. And if residents want to start cleaning up the air and everything else, why not start with much more polluting industries and businesses in the city? Have a heart for poor people, for a change.

ANNELIESE OHLER

North Hollywood

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Would someone introduce L.A.’s gardeners to Southern California Edison? Gardeners using electric blowers pass on energy costs to clients. Electric blowers are less expensive to maintain and replace. The gardeners win. The voters win.

TEA JAMES

Los Angeles