Healthy Living in the Valley

California Nonprofit Moves Toward Emission-Free Power Tools

The American Green Zone Alliance (AGZA) is continuing its commitment to sustainability, diversity and community by helping a California nonprofit transition into lower-impact technologies and operations. The grounds maintenance crews at Desert Haven Enterprises recently finished testing new battery-powered tools at their site in Lancaster and determined which were best for their teams. They are in the process of implementing this equipment at their five-acre property. Desert Haven leadership says battery-powered tools are quieter, lighter and cut costs by lowering fuel consumption and maintenance needs.

“When we have an opportunity to give back to our community in such a powerful way, by doing our part to lower emissions and to make our beautiful valley a healthier place to live, we are going to jump all over that!” says Jenni Moran, Desert Haven Enterprises executive director.

Desert Haven Enterprises works with people who have developmental challenges. They offer various programs that teach life skills for homes, jobs and neighborhoods, with the ultimate goal of becoming productive, independent and participating members of the community. Desert Haven launched in 1954 and serves any adult aged 18 or older in the areas surrounding Antelope Valley.

"This is one of the most rewarding projects
I have had the pleasure to work on."

says Dan Mabe, AGZA president.

The Antelope Valley Air Quality Management District (AVAQMD) helped Desert Haven work with AGZA through a grant program. The AGZA allowed the grounds maintenance teams to test different commercial battery electric equipment to find what worked best for the property. The team was very involved in the decision.

"The AVAQMD has had such a positive & profound impact on the communities they serve, & this is a prime example."

says Dan. “All of the folks at Desert Haven have been focused, professional and pleasant to work with. AGZA cannot express enough how impressed we are with what Desert Haven and the AVAQMD have accomplished together.”

After Desert Haven chose new electric tools, the AGZA Green Zone Certification was able to be completed. Plus, the crew underwent training for electric landscape maintenance equipment operations, safety and charging to receive AGZA Service Pro certifications. This makes Desert Haven the first nonprofit to receive two AGZA notorities.

Get In Touch With...

Eric Walker
Senior Operations Manager for Desert Haven Enterprises

Work: (661) 948–8402 ext. 208
Cell: (703) 615–6775
Email: ewalker@deserthaven.org