Michigan cities rethink ‘No Mow May’ as experts question pollinator benefits

May 9, 2026

Michigan cities are moving away from "No Mow May" programs due to concerns about tick habitat and limited scientific evidence that a one-month mowing pause significantly helps pollinators. Experts like Michigan State University's David Lowenstein suggest that while bees need food sources and nesting areas, the impact of letting grass grow for just a few weeks remains unproven by research. Cities including Ann Arbor, East Lansing, and Ferndale have either replaced or discontinued their No Mow May initiatives in favor of year-round approaches that encourage native plantings, reduced mowing frequencies, and pollinator-friendly landscaping practices.

Who is affected

Residents of Michigan cities including East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Jackson, and Ferndale
Bees, butterflies, and other pollinators seeking nectar and pollen sources
City officials and sustainability managers responsible for environmental policies
Property owners subject to lawn maintenance ordinances
People at risk for Lyme disease and tick exposure (residents in 82 of Michigan's 83 counties)

What action is being taken

East Lansing has adopted a resolution allowing pollinator-friendly landscapes year-round with new definitions for native gardens
Ann Arbor is encouraging residents to plant native species, reduce turf lawns, limit pesticide use, and reduce light pollution through its Pollinator-Aware Yard Care initiative
Jackson is operating a limited No Mow May program that allows backyard grass growth while requiring front yard maintenance
Ferndale is recommending residents maintain grass at three to four inches tall and mow less frequently

Why it matters

This matters because it represents a shift from popular but potentially ineffective environmental initiatives toward evidence-based policies. With 82 of Michigan's 83 counties facing Lyme disease risk from blacklegged ticks, the public health implications of tall grass environments are significant. Additionally, establishing year-round pollinator support through native plantings and sustainable landscaping practices addresses the fundamental needs of bees and pollinators more effectively than temporary mowing pauses, creating lasting ecological benefits rather than symbolic gestures.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com