No Mow May Resources & Pollinator Guide

No Mow May Recap

In 2023 the City of Florence observed its first No Mow May in order to support local pollinators as they went about their work in spring! The program was a huge success and encouraged awareness of pollinators right here in Florence.

Background

The Environmental Management Advisory Committee (EMAC) is tasked with developing and recommending strategies that support the landscape and biology of the region. On April 12, 2023 EMAC voted to recommend City Council support the No Mow May Initiative, and on April 17, 2023 City Council approved the resolution.

In April of 2024 EMAC once again recommended that City Council support a No Mow May initiative. On April 15, 2024 City Council unanimously voted in favor of the Resolution 6. Series 2024, allowing the program to continue for the second year in a row.

What is No Mow May?

No Mow May is an initiative that encourages property owners to limit lawn mowing practices during the month of May to provide early season foraging resources for pollinators that emerge in the spring, especially when few floral resources are available. During May City Code Enforcement does not enforce on lawns that may exceed the 12" growth limit (with exceptions for rights-of-way or noxious vegetation).

Why Did City Council Approve it?

The City Council finds it is in the public interest and consistent with adopted City policy for the City to demonstrate its commitment to a safe and healthy community environment through the implementation of initiatives that help increase the pollinator population.

The Florence City Council established a goal within its City Work Plan to create pathways for sustainable local food production and security.

The Florence City Council recognizes that bees and other pollinators are integral to the pollination of plants in order to grow a wide diversity of foods and flowers. The ideal pollinator-friendly habitat is one comprised of mostly native wildflowers, food and herbal plants, grasses, shrubs and trees blooming in succession throughout the growing season.

Resources

For more information about the Code Enforcement rules surrounding No Mow May, we encourage you to read Resolution No. 12 Series 2023, attached below.

Helping Pollinators

On this page are several resources for those wanting to do more to attract and protect pollinators in their backyards.

The National Park Service has a wonderful guide for helping pollinators right here in the Pacific Northwest! For more tips and suggestions like the ones below, visit the National Park Service website.