KENT—The Kent Land Trust has turned its attention to the burgeoning spring landscape, urging residents to participate in “No Mow May,” the movement that aims that invites homeowners to share their lawns with many small creatures.
Lawns cover 40 million acres, or 2 percent, of the land in the U.S., making them the single largest irrigated crop grown. Lawns provide little benefit to wildlife and are often harmful, lacking floral resources and nesting sites for bees. They are often treated with pesticides that harm bees and other invertebrates.
The start of the growing season is a critical time for hungry, newly emerged native bees. Floral resources may be hard to find, especially in urban and suburban landscapes. By allowing grass to grow longer, and letting flowers bloom, lawns can provide nectar and pollen to help bee neighbors thrive.
The KLT will also turn its attention to human neighbors in May. The Kent Farmers Market will again take up its place on the land trust’s field at 37 South Main St. Friday, May 17. The market will continue to be open Fridays through October, 3 to 6 p.m.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 27, the annual community picnic will be held on the same field, starting at 11 a.m.
