Grass maintenance plan is a cut above

New grassland maintenance techniques aimed at increasing biodiversity in Perth and Kinross parks and open spaces could be extended after a successful trial run.

The trial, carried out during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 periods, explored new grasslands maintenance techniques that promoted increased levels of biodiversity.

The next meeting of the Climate Change and Sustainability Committee on Wednesday will hear about the outcome of the trial initiative and how it can be implemented going forward.

The trial encompassed two different approaches. The first involved“cut and lift”trials, where grass was mowed once annually, and the cuttings removed.

The second approach focused on designating “no mow”areas, where the grass remained untouched.

A total of 42 sites were part of the trial, with 34 designated as“no mow” areas and eight as“cut and lift”areas.

The trials“successfully addressed”the dual challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change while also offering cost savings by reducing fuel and chemical expenses.

To gauge community sentiment regarding the new approach, an online public consultation ran from February to the end of October 2022.

With a total of 386 responses received, 73.8 per cent were in favour of the proposals. Once concerns raised in the responses were addressed, it increased to 78 per cent.

The committee will be asked to approve a proposal to develop a long-term plan for grassland management.

The plan includes expanding the number of “no mow”and“cut and lift”sites.

In support of engaging community groups, the council has allocated £75,000 from its budget.

Climate Change and Sustainability convener, councillor Richard Watters,said:“i believe it is time to rethink our approach to grass cutting in managed areas.

“By reducing the frequency of mowing, we can create a more diverse and thriving ecosystem that benefits our wildlife, insects, flowers and bees.

“This small change can make a big difference in promoting biodiversity and preserving our natural heritage for generations to come.

“It also comes with the added benefit of being more cost efficient in a time where there is ever increasing pressure on council budgets.”