Embracing ‘No Mow May’ with a wilder Walsall
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In a move to combat climate change and biodiversity loss, Walsall Council will continue its commitment to rewilding initiatives aimed at bolstering ecological resilience and nurturing healthier communities.
As part of this endeavour Walsall Council is embracing the principles of the "No Mow May" movement, this is Plantlife's annual campaign calling all lawn owners not to mow during May. Plantlife is the international conservation membership charity working to secure a world rich in wild plants and fungi.
Alongside this, the council aims to create vital habitats for wildlife while contributing to overall ecosystem health by allowing grass to grow longer and adopting reduced mowing regimes in public green spaces throughout the borough.
Recognising the inherent link between environmental health and human well-being, the council is dedicated to fostering biodiversity and ecological resilience. Over the years the UK has lost nearly half of its biodiversity, with a report from the Natural History Museum stating that the UK has ‘led the world’ in destroying the natural environment.
Additionally, the 2019 State of Nature report revealed that 56% of UK species are in decline and 15% are threatened with extinction. Through strategic measures such as expanding grassland, heathland, wildflower, and tree cover, the council seeks to provide essential refuges for wildlife while actively reducing carbon emissions.
A notable aspect of this initiative is the shift in grassland management practices, with an emphasis on allowing grass to grow longer to serve as crucial habitat and food sources for invertebrates and birds.
Grass cutting and maintenance will still occur throughout the borough, with a focus on late summer/early autumn to enable wildflowers to set seed. This gradual process will reduce nutrient levels in the soil, allowing wildflowers to thrive over time.
While this approach may raise concerns, the council is committed to addressing resident feedback and balancing the needs of the community with its commitment to promoting biodiversity.
Residents are encouraged to learn more about the 'Rewilding Walsall' project on the dedicated webpage: https://go.walsall.gov.uk/parks-and-green-spaces/conservation-and-the-environment/rewilding
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