November 4-5 and November 11-12

Rent-a-Rower

Q: What is it?
A: Once a year, the Bromfield Acton-Boxborough Rowing Team offers a leaf raking service. Our rowers have the discipline necessary to succeed not only on the water but in your yard. They are strong, determined and willing to do the hard work necessary to raise money for their program. By hiring these rowers to rake your leaves, you will be providing opportunities for our local student athletes to participate in the exceptional sport of rowing. The money raised goes toward equipment for the rowing team.

Q: When is it?
A: The raking days for Fall 2023 season are November 4-5 and November 11-12. [Rain date will be November 18].

Q: How does it work and how do I sign up?
A: Sign up on our Fall 2023 Raking Sign-Up Sheet.  It will allow you to reserve a raking crew for the day and time slot you want. On the day your select, your team of rowers-turned-rakers will come to your home and tackle those leaves. 

Q: When do you start to take reservations?
A: We will start taking reservation on Tuesday, October 3. 

Q: What do I get?
A: Each crew consists of 4 people – 3 rower athletes and an adult supervisor. Each crew comes equipped with leaf blowers, rakes and tarps. The supervisor makes sure the athletes are on task and communicates with the customer.

Q: How much does it cost?
A: You choose the amount of time you need based on the size of the project. Some examples of typical projects are given below with yard sizes and leaf coverage (light, normal, heavy, very heavy). Please remember that we will do our best in the amount of time chosen, but cannot guarantee that your yard/job will be completely clear of leaves.

Other factors to consider when estimating include: number of gardens, how far leaves need to be moved, and hills to/from the drop site.

1 hour   = $165
2 hours = $300
3 hours = $415

Q: What is the BHRA Quality Pledge?
A: BHRA pledges that our raking will be as complete as possible in the time allotted and good quality. We want you to be satisfied with our work.
      *If our work lacks quality, we will come back to fix it up. Please email us by the following Monday 6pm so that we can schedule the follow-up.
      *If we are unable to finish in the time allocated, you are welcome to sign up for another slot to have us come back if our schedule has openings..

Q: I only need a small amount of raking – can I sign up for a smaller project?
A: At this time the minimum we offer is the 1 hour time slot.

Q: Will I receive an email confirming my reservation?
A: At the time you place the reservation you will receive an email confirmation. You will also receive a heads-up reminder a week before the event.

Q: What about rain cancellation?
A: The rain date cancellation will take effect if it is raining, or if the leaves are wet from a previous rain as they are very difficult to rake when wet. A decision to use the rain date will be made as little as 8 hours prior to the service. In this event an email notification will be sent to you. You will be asked to re-book for the rain date on November 18.

Q: Can I cancel my reservation?
A: You are free to cancel your reservation up to 4 days in advance. Please email us as soon as you can .

Q: Do I need to be at home for the raking?
A: No. But if you won’t be home please make a note when you place your reservation, and email us to give us a heads up. We will contact you to get any specific details about your raking.

Q: Will you remove/dispose of leaves for me?
A: We don't offer a disposal service.  If you don’t have woods we suggest one of the “curbside pickup” services below. Our raking team will pile the leaves near the road for removal.

Q: What forms of payment do you accept? What are the payment terms?
A: Payment is expected at the time service is completed. Our preferred means of payment is a check payable to Bare Hill Rowing Association. We prefer not to accept cash. If you will not be home the day we come, you can tape the check in an envelope to the door. Please email us if you have any questions.

Q: I am a BHRA Alumni, or parent of BHRA Alumni. Can I get my lawn raked?
A: Yes! Alumni and parents of Alumni (who don’t have a current rower) are welcome to sign up!

Q: Is payment for the raking tax-deductible?
A: Unfortunately, no. Tax rules say that if a product or service is received in exchange then it is not considered a charitable donation and is not tax deductible.

Q: I am a parent of a current BHRA rower. Can I get my lawn raked?
A: The leaf raking service is not available to parents of current rowers. We offer the service to residents of Harvard, Acton and Boxborough that are not directly involved with the team.