Dutch municipality adjusts mowing policy to boost biodiversity and safety
A Dutch municipality is changing its mowing practices to balance safety and nature. Less frequent mowing in certain areas supports wildlife and reduces pests, while high-traffic zones remain well-maintained. Residents can report unsafe verges.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Mowing frequency | Football/play fields: almost weekly |
| Wadis: twice a year | |
| Verges/embankments: ecological management (varies) | |
| Traffic visibility areas: 4+ times a year | |
| Ecological benefits | Taller grass supports nesting, butterflies, and biodiversity |
| Safety considerations | Short grass in play areas; residents can report dangerous overgrowth |
| Location example | Verges along Rillaarsebaan |
The municipality manages public greenery to ensure safety, usability, and ecological health. By adjusting mowing practices, it aims to protect biodiversity while maintaining visibility and accessibility for residents.
Read the full translated article below
Questions about mowing
We are a green municipality with plenty of grass, verges, and ditches. We maintain this public greenery year-round. How often we mow depends on the growth rate, how residents use the greenery, and what is important for plants and animals. Mowing is custom work. On this page, we explain more about it.
What we do
We consider where the greenery is located and how it is used
In certain places, we mow regularly. For example, because people play there. Or because tall grass reduces visibility and creates an unsafe situation. When determining where we mow less frequently, we take into account the location and how it is used.
In other places, we mow less often
Taller grass provides better shelter and nesting opportunities for animals. Even ‘unwanted’ weeds, such as nettles and thistles, are useful. Butterflies lay their eggs on them. Weeds can suppress pests, such as oak processionary moths. A field with a variety of grasses and weeds is less vulnerable to extreme weather and benefits biodiversity.
How often do we mow?
- We mow football and play fields and grass fields almost weekly so they don’t grow too long
- We mow and clear wadis twice a year
- We mow and clear verges, embankments, and areas where rough grass and wildflower mixtures grow according to our ecological mowing management.
- Verges (e.g., along Rillaersebaan) are mowed and cleared twice a year
- Visibility areas for traffic are mowed four times a year or more if necessary
Less frequent mowing means the greenery looks different than you’re used to
Many people are accustomed to short-mown grass. However, mowing less often benefits biodiversity and thus nature. Since nature is under pressure, we pay more attention to this.
Do you have a question or want to make a report?
- Do you find a verge dangerous? For example, if plants grow too tall and you can’t see properly. Report it to us.