Bill Young, Conservation Chair for the Sydenham Field Naturalists, is spearheading a No Mow May initiative in Chatham-Kent.
No Mow May is a conservation initiative that was started in the United Kingdom and gaining momentum in Canada, the group says.
“Bill has taken this grassroots movement and redesigned it to benefit our native biodiversity,” Sydenham Field Naturalists officials said in a media release.
“To help create habitation and foraging for our early pollinators, this initiative requires the pausing of our mowing practices during the month of May. Since 75% of our world food crops depend on pollinators, it cannot hurt to allow them a head start.”
There are several other benefits to pausing or reducing our mowing practices which include saving money on lawn treatments and watering as well as reducing air pollution from gas lawnmowers, the group added.
“While one’s first reaction maybe ‘No cutting my lawn will look like a jungle and how will I cut it at the
end of May?’,” the groups said.
“Understanding this dilemma he believes if you feel your lawn is to the point that it is no longer
manageable ‘Cut it’ a bit longer than you usually.”
If you are interested in purchasing a locally created and printed ‘No Mow May’ yard signs, with proceeds
supporting SFN conservation programs, $20 per sign, email Sydnhamfn@hotmail.com.
“Another excellent way to help our pollinators and regain biodiversity is to plant native plants,” the groups said.
“Mr. Young would like to remind everyone that the Sydenham Field Naturalists will be hosting their Annual Native Plant Sale on May 20, so keep an eye out for their advertisements.”
For more details visit https://www.sydenhamfieldnaturalists.ca/.
