MDAQMD staff presents a check for $42,179 to Victor Elementary School District representatives and Maintenance & Grounds team members to fund the replacement of commercial landscaping equipment with battery-powered zero-emission equivalents.

Oct. 8, 2025

VICTORVILLE — The Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District (MDAQMD) recently helped fund a zero-emission upgrade of landscaping equipment for the Victor Elementary School District (VESD) in Victorville.

First-time MDAQMD grant programs applicant VESD has replaced nine gasoline-powered lawn and garden tools with STIHL-brand zero-emission, battery-electric models — including an RZA760 ride-on mower, MSA300-20L chainsaw, HLA 135-245 hedger, HSA 130R Hedger, two FSA 135R Trimmers, and three BRA 600 blowers.

Through this equipment replacement project, the school district provides a unique opportunity to improve public health beyond emission reductions by reducing localized air and noise pollution around schools. Advancing the use of cleaner technology in public spaces, this project aligns with environmental goals.

The project will be funded using 54% from the Carl Moyer Program and the remaining 46% from MDAQMD’s local Clean Air Funds, fully covering the $42,179 project cost. MDAQMD’s various incentive funding programs are part of the air district’s mission to attain and maintain healthful air quality while supporting strong and sustainable economic growth. The reduction of emissions from this specific project directly benefits ambient air quality in Victorville and the neighborhoods within which VESD schools are located.

For more information on MDAQMD’s various grant programs, visit MDAQMD.ca.gov/grants or contact the Grants section at grants@mdaqmd.ca.gov.

MDAQMD is the air pollution control authority and permitting agency for the High Desert portion of San Bernardino County and the Palo Verde Valley in Riverside County. It’s governed by a board of 13 members representing nine incorporated municipalities and two counties within its boundaries. Visit mdaqmd.ca.gov or follow @MDAQMD on social media.