Auburn, Alabama – The American Green Zone Alliance (AGZA) recently visited Auburn University (AU) to expand an exciting collaboration focused on advancing electric outdoor power equipment testing.
With this milestone, Auburn University is now officially recognized as an AGZA AFTC Field Testing Site for the Southeast region — a major step forward in sustainable land care leadership.
A gorgeous spring evening overlooking the famous Samford Hall located in the Auburn University Historic District.The visit was packed with activity:
- Observing equipment in real-world operation
- Installing a cutting-edge robotics system
- Leading classroom and field training sessions for AU’s landscape maintenance crews
- Identifying areas across campus that are strong candidates for AGZA Green Zone Certification
AGZA and AU also teamed up with Sunseeker representatives to successfully install a commercial robotic mower system — just in time to tackle the high demands of the spring mowing season.
Teams from AU, AGZA, and Sunseeker spent an entire day installing the Sunseeker commercial robotics system earmarked for AGZA AFTC testing.Looking ahead, AU and AGZA will closely monitor the new robotics system with both a hands-on, in-person approachand real-time tracking through the Sunseeker app. Key data points such as error code frequency, workload productivity, aesthetic outcomes, and connectivity reliability will be closely analyzed to ensure maximum efficiency and performance.
AGZA also shadowed AU’s landscape maintenance crews, observing step-by-step operation of Milwaukee’s commercial-grade handheld tools and portable field chargers. String trimmers, stick edgers, leaf blowers, and 21-inch self-propelled walk-behind mowers were all put through their paces to assess performance, ergonomics, and determine how many battery swaps are needed to match traditional two-stroke fuel or gasoline use.
Milwaukee’s battery platforms are currently undergoing AGZA AFTC Field Certification testing across four diverse U.S. regions. This extensive process subjects the tools to a wide range of environmental challenges — temperature extremes, dust levels, moisture, and vegetation types — ensuring they’re truly built to withstand commercial-grade demands coast to coast.
The Milwaukee handheld commercial electric platform and 21-inch, self-propelled walk behind mower under spring workloads at AU.Meanwhile, AGZA continues to collect valuable real-world feedback on the AGZA AFTC Certified STIHL RZA riding mower, ensuring that evolving crew experiences are reflected in updated performance data.
The goal? Offering the industry’s most detailed and impartial insights into battery electric equipment durability and longevity.
AGZA Mid-Atlantic and Southeast representative Zack Kline and AU Manager, Landscaper Services Division, Wes Miller survey the equipment yard.The collaboration culminated with a lively lunch-and-learn session hosted by the AU Department of Horticulture, where AGZA engaged the university’s exceptional grounds crews. Topics included the fundamentals of low-impact land care and the exciting potential for future AGZA Green Zone Certifications across campus.
The pride and professionalism of Auburn’s maintenance teams are evident at every turn. As AU transitions thoughtfully toward battery electric equipment, their commitment to preserving the university’s world-class aesthetic standards shines brightly. From the stunning visual landscapes seen while driving the campus to the finely detailed care evident on foot, Auburn’s dedication to excellence sets a powerful example for institutions nationwide.
AGZA is proud to deepen our collaboration with Auburn University — advancing the science, standards, and future of sustainable land care together.
AGZA President Dan Mabe with Auburn University Department of Horticulture and Grounds Management Services.
Principal CEO at Gardenland Power Equipment & Co-Founder and CEO of Towa Industries Inc.
Roger Phelps joined STIHL Inc. in 2001 and is currently the Corporate Communications Manager. In that position he is responsible for creating and telling the STIHL story through integrated event marketing, strategic partnerships, sponsorships, and digital and social media with the goal of increasing the visibility of and affinity for the STIHL brand and over 10,000 STIHL dealers. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy and served 10 years in the U.S. Navy attaining the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He has serves on the National Association of Landscape Professionals Foundation Board of Directors, the National Association of State Park Directors Leadership School Board of Regents, and the Professional Grounds Management Society Board of Directors.
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