If you are looking for ways to trim the budget, establishment of "no mow" areas in your parks might be part of the solution. Shown is such an area in a Rockford park.

Establishing "No Mow" Natural Areas

By Thomas M. Kalousek

In these times of trying to utilize tax dollars more efficiently, the idea of establishing "no mow" natural areas has come into vogue. Reducing mowable acreage in order to decrease expenditures for staff and equipment by establishing either native prairie areas or by letting natural plant succession take over is one way to redirect maintenance dollars. This course of action can be effective if handled positively. Here are some helpful hints for successfully establishing "no mow" natural areas:

1. KNOW YOUR PARK AREAS. Be familiar with the site. Know the lay of the land, the existing plantings, and how the site is used. There are both active and passive areas that can be identified.

2. KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS. Whether the park is surrounded by neighbors or not, the real question is what do the people who use or view the park regularly perceive it should be. Try to get the neighbors involved in the decision-making process from the start. Sell the "no mow" natural idea; and if you give the neighbors a chance to buy in, you might be surprised at the support you will receive.

3. KEEP ENTRANCES AND EXITS NEAT AND ATTRACTIVE. First and last impressions definitely leave their mark. Entrances should always be well maintained by keeping grass cut and trimmed properly, signs should be free of vandalism and repaired immediately, while such focal points should have some plantings to accent their appearance.

4. MAINTAIN HIGH VISIBILITY/SPECIAL USE AREAS APPROPRIATELY. Playgrounds, picnic sites, and athletic areas are not the places to establish "no mow" natural areas. Meet the expectations of the park users. Do not neglect the quality of the work you perform, especially where people are using the site.

5. USE SIGNS. There's an old saying that goes "don't pull that weed, label it." If you can show that these natural "no mow" areas are planned and intentional, and placed in appropriate areas to begin with, and the remainder of the site is well cared for, then these natural areas through proper sign-age indicate good planning and management and not neglect.

6. Lastly, START SLOWLY AND EXPAND STEADILY. Starting out with ten acres of natural "no mow" areas where there were none is not the best approach. Identify the area and start slowly. Once established, it's relatively easy to expand without many objections. By using the appropriate public relations techniques to gain support and by involving special interest groups who support the natural areas'concept, success can almost be guaranteed.

All of the above hints will assist in establishing natural "no mow" areas that will add to the character and texture of the park setting while helping to cut costs.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Thomas M. Kalousek is Superintendent of Maintenance for the Rockford Park District.

Windbreak Packets Available The Department of Conservation announces the availability of "Windbreak" packets for individuals or organizations who desire to plant trees for protection from the wind. Benefits of such plantings are reduction of fuel costs, control of erosion, prevention of snow drifts, protection for animals, cover for wildlife, and beautification. The packets, complete with the instructions are available until April 1 and may be ordered through district foresters or agricultural extension advisers. Each packet is $13.50 delivered.

Illinois Parks and Recreation     22    March/April 1983