Facilities & Services established “Low Mow Zones” in 2010 to support sustainability, increase pollinator support, and decrease maintenance costs.  Due to the continuous presence of invasive species and undesirable tree saplings, all campus areas need to be mowed occasionally to help further balance and maintain the environment. 

Cutting low mow zones intermittently lessens the seed production from weeds and non-native plants, decreasing the seed bank for next year.  This process is essential to preserve the high-quality native perennials and minimize invasive weeds such as Canada Thistle, Queen Anne ’s Lace, Teasel, Ragweed, etc., as well as woody tree species.

By reducing mowing frequency, the university is efficiently stewarding resources and reestablishing dynamic landscapes on campus for the benefit of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.