WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WI (WSAU) — Wisconsin Rapids residents can once again jump on the no mow may bandwagon if they so choose.
Mayor Shane Blaser says the city will be suspending its lawn maintenance ordinance for the entire month of May this year, meaning residents can take a break from firing up those lawnmowers to raise awareness for pollinator habitats. Last year the city did require registration for those who wanted to participate, though Blaser said they found that was a bit cumbersome for those at City Hall. “This year we’re not having people sign up or requiring yard signs. You can just choose to participate or not participate.”
Blaser describes this year’s no mow May regulations as “take it or leave it.” Participation is completely voluntary and those who want to participate can do so for the entire month or just a few weeks. There will be no penalties either way.
Those who still have last year’s yard sign can reuse it again this year or Blaser says you can pick one up at City Hall. He adds that while there were some complaints about last year’s event, it was largely well-received.
“We received a lot of positive feedback. A lot of people were happy that we did that and we are doing it again. We even had people from outside our community coming in and [requesting] yard signs because they wanted to participate. It’s a very popular thing to do, and it’s worthwhile,” said Blaser.
There are also educational events about pollinators planned at the Library to raise awareness during May as well.
This is the second year that Wisconsin Rapids has taken up the no mow May charge. The movement began in the Oshkosh area several years ago and has slowly been spreading to other areas of the state including Wausau, Stevens Point, and Eau Claire.
Other topics Mayor Blaser discussed with WSAU’s Mike Leischner include:
Start of video- reorganization of the City Council
4:30- No mow may
8:00- Cultural Assets Forum
11:00- Tree City USA designation
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