Written question WQ93818

Welsh Government is encouraging organisations including Local Authorities who manage grassy areas such as verges and parks to take a more sympathetic approach to mowing. We have worked with Carolyn Thomas (MS) and a subgroup of the Action Plan for Pollinators to develop the ‘It’s for Them’ campaign to explain that changing mowing of green spaces can create a better habitat for ‘Them’: invertebrates, birds, small mammals, amphibians and reptiles.

On the Welsh Government page, Road verges and amenity grasslands supporting wildlife: frequently asked questions, we explain the importance of engaging with people about changes to mowing practices and the need to discuss changes with local people and community groups. Such discussions can give everyone a better understanding of how the spaces are used and that it takes time to change from a grass-dominated meadow to a flower-rich meadow. Having these conversations can help avoid unrealistic expectations and disappointments and can enable people to get involved. It can provide opportunities to explain the benefits that changes to mowing can bring for nature and that mowing less is not about cost saving.