Experimenting with Councils mowing frequency to reduce fuel use and improve soil health.
2.4Review mowing frequencies to align with good turf practices
Progress
- Not started
- Planning
- Implementation
- Completed
Description
Reducing mowing frequency, reduces the amount of fuel used to maintain an area. It also supports improving air-quality for the user and the community. Allowing grass to grow a little longer also supports increased root development, which means it can respond better to heat and water stress.
Official description
Undertake a review of mowing frequencies to align with good turf practices, improved turf health and reduced resource use and increased carbon sequestration. Aim to decrease mowing by approximately 40%.
(According to the action plan)Read more
Tasks
What has been done?
- 31/12/2022
Reduced cut height to support soil health
- 31/12/2022
Reduced fuel consumption of mowing equipment
The mowing frequency of open space turf has been reviewed and adjusted to reduce fuel consumption of mowing equipment.
Summary and contacts
Contact persons
Environmental Sustainability team
City of Boroondara
Information updated 22/03/2023
The cutting height of turf has been increased from 45mm to 65mm. This has reduced broadleaf weeds (resulting in less chemical spraying of 'weeds') and additional grass coverage (leading to less dust & erosion).