HomeMy WebLinkAbout21-xxx No Mow May ResolutionAPRIL 13, 2021 21-XXX RESOLUTION
(CARRIED_______ LOST _______ LAID OVER _______ WITHDRAWN _______)
PURPOSE: DESIGNATE THE MONTH OF MAY AS NO MOW MAY
INITIATED BY: SUSTAINABILITY ADVISORY BOARD
WHEREAS, the City of Oshkosh would like to encourage an increase in pollinator-
friendly habitat through pollinator-friendly lawn-care practices; and
WHEREAS, ideal pollinator-friendly habitat is comprised of mostly native
wildflowers, grasses, vines, shrubs, and trees blooming in succession throughout the
growing season, is free or nearly free of pesticides, is comprised of undisturbed spaces
including un-mown lawns; and provides connectivity between habitat areas to support
pollinator movement and resilience; and
WHEREAS, the formative period for establishment of pollinator and other insect
species, and the many songbirds and other urban wildlife species which depend upon
them, occurs in late spring and early summer when they emerge from dormancy and
require flowering plants as crucial foraging habitat; and these opportunities are
dramatically reduced with early spring grass-mowing; and
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the City of Oshkosh, through the City
of Oshkosh Sustainability Advisory Board recognizes No Mow May to actively promote
and educate the community about the critical period of pollinator emergence, generation
of crucial pollinator-supporting habitat and early spring foraging opportunities.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City of Oshkosh Common Council directs
staff to not issue correction notices for long grass and weed violations for the month of
May, permitting all residents to voluntarily delay lawn care until June, allowing
pollinator species to emerge and early flowering grasses and forbes to establish, which
may result in ground-cover exceeding established ordinance height restrictions.