U.S. Lawns is encouraging greener fuels for its network of more than 260 locally owned franchises nationwide.

"We kicked off our mower fleet conversion with a field day for our employees, which included safety training by PAPCO, a highly respected energy supplier. We are happy to be working with them to support our complete conversion of gasoline-powered commercial lawnmowers over to new John Deere propane-powered models," said Steve Ferguson, U.S. Lawns franchise owner in Hampton Roads, VA.

John Deere dealer East Coast Equipment partnered with U.S. Lawns in Hampton Roads to convert their mower fleet to propane. Virginia Beach, Va.-based petroleum marketer PAPCO Inc. will lease 72 propane lawnmower cylinders and cabinets for U.S. Lawns' 16 new propane-powered John Deere mowers, in addition to providing ongoing propane supply.

"We are very excited about our partnership with U.S. Lawns to fulfill their goal of converting to safe, clean-burning propane," said PAPCO sales donsultant, Richard Reddington. "We look forward to helping them keep the grass greener in Hampton Roads."

As part of the conversion, PAPCO General Manager Peter Ryan conducted four 30-minute sessions of Propane 101 Training for U.S. Lawns' employees.

"PAPCO is committed to a safe work environment at our own facilities, and we are constantly sharing best practices in safe operations with our customers as part of our extensive line of energy products and services," said Ryan.

"U.S. Lawns franchisees continue efforts to convert equipment to greener fuels in locations around the country," said Ken Hutcheson, president of U.S. Lawns. U.S. Lawns encourages franchisees to be mindful of water conservation, minimize waste, protect natural habitats and promote plant health and longevity.

"We have strived to be a green company, before 'green' was a buzz word," continued Hutcheson. "We seek to create a more sustainable planet; because quality of life makes all of our lives better."