During the month of May, Cortland officials are inviting city residents to grow out their lawns without risk of a citation next month.
In December of 2022, Cortland Common Council held a meeting where members unanimously voted to approve the “No Mow May” initiative.
What is “No Mow May”
The City of Cortland describes “No Mow May” as:
- a conservation initiative to promote healthy habitat for people & pollinators.
- Residents let their lawns grow – just during the month of May.
- Let wildflowers blossom for pollinators.
Why You Should Participate
- We rely on bees & their allies to pollinate 100 crops nationwide.
- Steep declines in insect populations affect our food production.
- We protect pollinator food supplies & habitat, so we can sustain our own.
“Plants of all types including food crops, gardens, trees and others depend on pollinators to reproduce,” stated in the resolution of the meeting. “Pollinators have been under significant anthropogenic pressure in recent years resulting in significant decline. Early spring is a time of vulnerability for pollinators as they emerge from hibernation and food sources are scarce. Residential yards can be an important stopgap nectar source for pollinators if left to grow naturally during this critical period. Lawn mowing removes flowers of violets, dandelions, and other flowering lawn plants.”
During May, Cortland residents can register their properties, for free, by pledging not to mow their lawns during the duration of the month, registered properties will be excused from citations.
To register, call 607-753-1741.
Deadlines to apply for “No Mow May” ends Friday, April 21st.
Once you call the Code Enforcement Office- the number listed above- you will receive a Certificate of Participation. Post your certificate on your front door or window and you’re all set for a mow-free month!
The program will end on May 31st and be sure to mow your lawns by June 5th!