Spring yard work just became more rewarding for Utah residents, thanks to a new state program offering a cash incentive. The “Charge Your Yard” initiative provides a $200 voucher for residents who switch from gas-powered lawn care equipment to electric alternatives.
The program, administered by the Utah Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), is available to residents in Davis, Salt Lake, Tooele, and Weber Counties. To participate, individuals must purchase eligible electric lawn tools and recycle their old gas-powered equipment at approved recycling facilities. The program is set to run until funds are depleted, so early participation is encouraged.
This initiative is designed to address the environmental impact of small, gas-powered engines, which tend to have a high emissions-to-size ratio. Bryce Bird, director of the Division of Air Quality, explained that reducing volatile organic compound emissions plays a crucial role in decreasing ground-level ozone. “In the long run, switching to electric motors in yard equipment can help reduce the Salt Lake smog, especially in the summertime,” Bird said. “Other immediate benefits include significantly quieter engines and the elimination of smoke emissions.”
For more information or to apply, eligible residents can visit the DEQ website.
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