LOW mow areas

HISTORY

In April 2006, Park staff presented the additional 100-acre plan at a public hearing before the Park Commission. While the vast majority of the plan was well received, areas did need some further public input. Park staff continued throughout the summer to work with affected neighbors and residents to adjust the mow lines. The new low-mow meadow areas were on hillsides, lowlands and among tree clusters. These areas were difficult to mow and required additional staff time. The newly added acres were spread throughout the entire parks system; an acre here and 5 acres there.

WHY WE HAVE LOW MOW AREAS

With the expanding parklands, rising fuel costs and shrinking budgets, the conversion to low-mow meadows and prairies had many undeniable benefits: less use of fossil fuel, creation of an improved infiltration system for storm water run-off, improved habitat for animals and insects, and the opportunity to re-install native plant communities thus increasing the plant diversity in our community.

LOW MOW PLANNING

Park Staff will continue to sustain and fine-tune the low-mow meadow plan while working toward the goal of 2/3 active parkland, and 1/3 natural parkland. Several low-mow meadow areas have been planted for conversion to higher quality prairie.  In 2009, areas of Kennedy Park will be converted to higher quality prairie during an Earth Day volunteer event.  Over 2000 prairie plugs will be planted.

opportunities for your park

There are opportunities for additional high quality prairie conversion in area parks. Factors contributing to the conversion are: appropriate use of the land, large enough area, an established and organized volunteer corps in the neighborhood and donated money to help pay for the conversion. If the neighborhood and park area qualifies, People for Parks Matching Funds may be used to help fund half of the cost of the conversion. Neighborhoods wishing to pursue having areas of their parks meadow areas converted into a higher quality prairie may contact the Parks Division at (608) 266-4711.