Noting the benefits to the environment, Chatham-Kent council approved a change in their long grass and weeds bylaw to allow for environmental naturalization areas on private lands.
The amendment is not about people letting their lawns grow long and into disrepair, said councillor Trevor Thompson, noting it’s a change in mindsets when it comes to allowing for prairie grasses and other native species.
“This is about allowing people on their properties—engaged, interested, knowledgeable people, to create spaces for pollinators. It’s about allowing people to slow the flow of water off of their roofs and into their lawns before it goes into municipal drains,” Thompson said.
Some of the goals of naturalization of properties is to reduce pesticide and fertilizer use; as well as increase insects, birds and native plant species.
Originally the amendment to the bylaw was to only allow for naturalization on side or rear yards, but a friendly amendment was entered to remove that stipulation.
Councillors had concerns about overrun vacant lots, as well as bylaw enforcement.
“I think you are going to pit neighbour versus neighbour, honestly I think it’s going to be a nightmare (to police),” said Councillor Steve Pinsonneault, noting concerns about having naturalization areas in urban areas.