ECHO Introduces Corporate Partners in Conjunction with ECHO Carving Series

LAKE ZURICH, Ill. – Echo, a leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment, has announced new corporate partnerships in conjunction with its ECHO Carving Series. ECHO has teamed up with Ducks Unlimited, the leading wetlands conservation organization in the United States and Canada, and Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A., a leader in all-terrain vehicles, outdoor power equipment and power sports products. The ECHO Carving Series is a showcase competition between nine award-winning chain saw sculptors with the champion to be crowned at the International Lawn, Garden & Power Equipment Expo held in Louisville, Ky. from Oct. 14 through 16, 2005.

In addition to a cash prize and special edition chain saw provided by ECHO, Yamaha will award this year’s first place winner a Special Edition, Ducks Unlimited Grizzly 660 4x4 ATV in its Advantage Max-4™ camouflage pattern. This limited-production model combines the rugged construction of the Grizzly 660 with hunter-friendly features including a high definition camo pattern and matching rear bag. Yamaha is also donating an EF1000iS Inverter generator, the ultimate in lightweight portable electricity, to the second place winner.

ECHO’s partnership with Ducks Unlimited and Yamaha is based on each organization’s dedication to providing outstanding service, quality products and a vision for the future conservation of North America’s natural habitats. Ducks Unlimited conserves, restores, and manages wetlands and associated habitats for North America's waterfowl for the benefit of both wildlife and people. Yamaha has been a leader in enabling the public’s enjoyment of the outdoors with their long line of sport and utility ATVs.

To learn more about the ECHO Carving Series visit the company’s Web site at www.echo-usa.com.