Apr. 28, 2009

Increased No Mow Zones In Green Trails

A Notice From Lisle Park District's Superintendent Of Parks

This year the Lisle Park District will be increasing our “No Mow Zones” around the edges of our parks, ponds and water features. In the past, we have maintained a 3 to 5 foot No Mow region around most of the edges of our ponds and water features. It has been determined that this distance is not effective enough in the control of shoreline erosion, goose populations, and nutrient runoff that creates runaway algae blooms.   

The latest research and industry trends are indicating that increasing these zones acts as a buffer, most notably for nutrient absorption that creates the rampant algae blooms that been increasingly problematic in Green Trails. It has become cost prohibitive to continue to try and control the algae through chemical application, not to mention that is not exactly the most environmentally sound practice.  Larger No Mow regions will also allow us to cut down on mowing expenses and chemical use in the future.  

The park district is exploring this “green” alternative, as a cost effective and more natural measure to control these problems rather than spending money on more mechanical and chemical means.  Please be aware that we are not stopping the algae treatments in 2009.  This season we will allow the turf grass to grow higher in these areas, but will keep them manicured and presentable.  In the future, hopefully as early as next year, we will begin the undertaking of planting a few of these areas with short natural vegetation, that has a significantly deeper root system to aid in removing excess nutrient runoff before it hits the water, as well as providing needed stabilization to the steep banks of the water’s edge. 

These grasses are roughly 12” to 16” in height and aesthetically pleasing to the eye.  They are not weed-like in any way. This year will be a good test to see how effective this type of program might be.  Please do not hesitate to use these areas the same as you have in the past, as we are not trying to prevent access to the water’s edge.  Please know that we are making every attempt to try and control the problem in the most cost effective, economical, and environmentally sound way we can.   

Thank you in advance for your support in these efforts.  If you should have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me at 630-964-3410 ext. 4381.  

Aaron Cerutti

Superintendent of Parks