By Isle of Wight Observer
The Isle of Wight Council is supporting the national ‘No Mow May’ campaign at several of its sites.
The campaign aims to encourage people to ‘liberate their lawns’ — letting the grass grow to provide a feast for insects and bees, and lock away greenhouse gasses below ground.
Natasha Dix, responsible for waste, environment and planning, said: “By not mowing in May, we support the Biosphere and help to protect, restore, and promote the sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, while also halting biodiversity loss.
“The findings from the ‘Every Flower Counts’ survey conducted nationally revealed that a mere one square meter of a typical lawn harboured 17 daisies, along with a sprinkling of buttercups, dandelions, and other native species. The urgency lies in the threat to the world’s bee population. By allowing lawns to bloom, even for just a month, we actively support our local bees.”
For safety reasons, the council will continue to mow roadside verges and a number of areas used for sport and recreation.
However, other areas will be allowed return to their natural state throughout the month.
For more information about No Mow May, visit iw.observer/no-mow-may.
