No Mow May Up for Discussion at St. Cloud City Council Meeting Monday

(KNSI) — St. Cloud will talk about joining the buzz when it looks at temporarily relaxing its mowing ordinance to let residents participate in No Mow May.

Officials say the initiative is to allow pollinator species to emerge and early flowering grasses to establish. “No Mow May” policies aim to help pollinator populations suffering from habitat loss.

City rules only allow grass to grow up to 10 inches in length before it must be cut. The proposed change would suspend that ordinance from May 1st to the 31st for all residents participating in the No Mow May. Those participating must continue to control noxious weeds. Before the city could change, they would hold a public hearing. One could take place as early as May 22nd. The proposed change would sunset on June 1st, 2025.

Councilmember George Hontos requested the topic be placed on the agenda after several members heard from constituents interested in a “No Mow May” policy. Similar policies have been adopted by cities throughout Minnesota, including recently in Waite Park.

Experts at the University of Minnesota say No Mow May shouldn’t be taken literally. The best way to help pollinators like bees and butterflies is to let wildflowers and fruit trees grow in your yard.

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