Less Mow May

The City of Greenfield endorses Less Mow May as a conservation initiative that encourages residents to mow less often or only mow portions of lawn for the month of May.  Mowing less often in spring helps preserve habitat and provide resources for bees and other early-season pollinators.  This is particularly important in urban areas where floral resources are often limited. Greenfield is just one of a growing number of municipalities in Milwaukee County to recognize the importance of protecting pollinators by providing essential food sources in early spring.  For a list of participating cities, please visit the Midwest Grows Green website.

During the month of May, Greenfield encourages residents to delay or reduce lawn cutting as a way to promote pollinator-friendly habitat early in the growing season. Less Mow May is a voluntary program for residents. If you wish to participate, simply give your lawn mower a break!  No lawn-registration required.

Important Notes:

  • Greenfield does not distribute Less Mow May yard signs.  Residents are encouraged to create or purchase yards signs to highlight their participation.  
  • Remember to resume your normal lawn maintenance beginning June 1st, in accordance with the City's Municipal Code.  Learn tips on how to mow long grass. 

How else can I help?

  1. Limit or eliminate the use of pesticides!
    For many years the traditional American green lawn has been viewed as the norm, but change is on the horizon. The monoculture nature of the green lawn has little benefit for pollinators and biodiversity. Green lawns require constant maintenance and often will be treated with pesticides. Pesticides, especially neonicotinoids, are the greatest threat to pollinating wildlife including bees, butterflies, birds and bats.
  2. Plant a pollinator-friendly garden!
    You can create sustainable habitat and food resources for pollinators by planting a variety of native plants for spring, summer, and fall! Below are links to resources you can use to help build a pollinator-friendly habitat in your own backyard:

Wisconsin DNR’s Native Plants for Beginners List (spring, summer, and fall bloomers!)
Wisconsin DNR’s list of Native Plant Nurseries (List of where to buy native pollinating plants!)
Xerces Great Lakes Region Pollinator Plant Guide (PDF)
Create A Rain Garden (absorbs stormwater runoff AND feeds pollinators!)

This information courtesy in part of the Zoological Society of Milwaukee.