Glenview Park District Uses Sustainable Grounds Equipment

Press release from Glenview Park District:

Sept. 16, 2021

The Glenview Park District Board of Commissioners approved the capital replacement purchase of four propane powered mowers and one battery powered mower at their most recent regular park board meeting in July.

Propane powered mowers burn cleaner through a mixture of gasoline and propane. they are safer than regular gas mowers and are less expensive than conventional fuel. Propane costs approximately 30% less than gasoline, is non-toxic and is a clean burning fuel. With 4 propane mowers in the fleet, the park district is already practicing sustainability in grounds management.

The average propane mower can cost around $3,000 to $4,000, while each gallon of propane currently runs around $3 per gallon. In 1 hour of mowing a propane mower would go through $20.40 of propane while a gasoline mower would spend $36.40. The savings these mowers offer over time is irrefutable.

The new, battery-powered Gravely EV Series Mower is also a step in the right direction sustainability-wise. It does not release exhaust, require oil changes, and is a zero-emissions mower. Exhaust contains harmful chemicals like soot and toxins, which harm the grass just as much as they can harm other living things. Introducing a battery-powered mower to the fleet the park district will cut down maintenance costs and ultimately save the park district time and money.

The battery-powered mower cost a total of $31,416, which includes a portable battery charger and spare batteries. This mower does not have air filters, spark plugs, transaxles and belts meaning it involves less materials that, mixed with gasoline, cause issues for the mower in the long run. Without the need for ongoing maintenance or replacement of these parts or the need to pay for fuel, the Park District will save thousands of dollars in the coming years.

“We are thrilled to add a battery-powered mower to our fleet. It is a better move for the Park District in the long run, not to mention a benefit to the environment,” commented Park and Facilities Manager Kris Mikkelsen. “We are always looking for new ways to practice sustainability and the park district is committed to furthering green initiatives in our community.”

This press release was produced by Glenview Park District. The views expressed here are the author's own.