GREEN BAY (NBC 26) — Three local cities are participating in "No Mow May" this year, joining other Wisconsin cities in an effort to create a more supportive environment for bees and other pollinators.
No Mow May is a conservation effort that encourages people to stop mowing or mow less often during the month of May. The idea is to let lawns grow out for a few weeks to ensure that bees have plenty of options for the nectar and pollen they need.
Cities temporarily waive enforcement of ordinances that require homeowners to maintain their lawns.
Appleton became the first city in the U.S. to adopt the “No Mow May” initiative a couple of years ago and others have followed.
As part of a joint effort, the cities of Green Bay and De Pere are offering No Mow May as a voluntary option for residents this year. Participants are asked to register and display their city-issued "No Mow May" yard sign in their front yard for the duration of the program. Links for more information can be found here for Green Bay and De Pere.
Oshkosh is also participating in No Mow May. The city says participation in No Mow May is voluntary and free of charge, but registration is required. The registration deadline is April 29. Properties that have not registered for the city’s No Mow May program will be subject to regular penalties for long grasses or weeds.
The city of Oshkosh says property owners may register through a link on the city’s website which can be accessed through the “Hot Topics” section, or by using the “Connect Oshkosh” app for mobile devices. For more information about No Mow May, homeowners can contact the Oshkosh Community Development Department at 920-236-5055.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
