The EPA says the regulation is expected to cost $236 million and will eliminate hundreds of thousands of tons of smog-forming hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxide. It is also anticipated to save 190 million gallons of gas and 300 lives each year.

In order to meet new exhaust emission standards, manufacturers will likely employ catalytic converters for the first time in many lawn and garden equipment and small watercraft.

In three years, the California Air Resources Board estimates the price of lawn mowers will be 18 percent more than today.

Some small lawn-care businesses say the new regulation will cut into their profits. Others, such as those from Scott?EUR??,,????'?????<