The City of Thunder Bay is applying reduced maintenance to select areas in City parks and open spaces, known as "no-mow zones."

This City Council-approved initiative will reduce labour costs and greenhouse gas emissions associated with grass mowing, while increasing species diversity and habitat potential, helping to introduce more native and pollinator species to our urban areas.

Please note that City crews will continue to mow high-use areas and buffer strips. Learn more about our approach below.

No-Mow Areas

The no-mow approach is currently being implemented in the following locations:

  • Academy Parkette           
  • Sunrise Parkette
  • Alexandra Parkette
  • Birchwood Parkette
  • Elmwood Parkette
  • Frederica Parkette
  • Grey Parkette
  • Kingsway Parkette
  • Mission Island Parkette
  • Weigand Parkette
  • McKellar Boat Launch
  • Leland Avenue Islands (Started in 2023)

Crews will also be leaving a 30- to 60-centimetre unmowed or mulched ring around trees, to avoid causing incidental damage to their trunks.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the City’s “no-mow” approach?

The City of Thunder Bay is launching a no-mow approach in select areas of some parks and open spaces. Those areas will no longer be mowed by City crews.

The no-mow approach will help the City cut costs, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and avoid damage to trees. It will also support the creation of strategic naturalized spaces throughout the city.

Does this mean the City will no longer mow parks and green spaces?

No, workers will continue to mow many parts of Thunder Bay’s parks and open spaces. The no-mow approach is targeted at select areas that are less frequently used by the public.

Most of the no-mow areas are located in parkettes (see above for a full list of locations).

Will this affect sports fields and other high-use areas?

City crews will continue to mow high-use areas like play fields and around park infrastructure like playgrounds.

A mown strip will also be maintained adjacent to curbs, roadways, sidewalks, and pathways.

Why is the City taking this step?

The no mow approach responds to staffing reductions included in the 2024 budget approved by City Council. It also brings benefits like cutting costs, reducing greenhouse gas emissions from mower operations, and avoiding damage to trees through incidental contact with mowing equipment.

In the longer term, this approach will also support the creation of naturalized spaces throughout the city. 

What should I do if I have questions or concerns?

If you have questions or concerns about park maintenance, you can contact City Dispatch at (807) 625-2195.

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