The Department for Infrastructure oversees the maintenance of 45,000km of grass verges along the road network. In recent years, it has been transitioning to eco-friendly practices, fostering the growth of wildflowers and supporting wildlife habitats.
In Coleraine, the Minister met with staff managing the Department's grass-cutting program and Mayor Steven Callaghan of Causeway Coast and Glens Council, along with award-winning council members advocating for the 'don't mow, let it grow' approach.
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Mr O'Dowd said:
"I am fully supportive of the 'No Mow May' approach which is a very positive initiative to ensure we protect nature and provide food for pollinating insects. The month of May is very important as bees and butterflies are actively foraging for food, sourced from dandelions and other flowering plants, found in grassy areas. By refraining from grass-cutting during May we are also helping to tackle pollution as well as locking away the very significant carbon below our feet.
"In 2022, I introduced a different approach to grass-cutting across the network we are responsible for. This has meant cutting grass less often to promote biodiversity. The difference it has made has been visibly remarkable and therefore a positive step in promoting biodiversity.
"Road safety is always our priority and while we will cut road-side verges to ensure visibility for all road-users, we will not be cutting grass as often or in the same way as we would have many years ago. These initiatives are part of our plan to protect the environment and to play our part in addressing climate change. I have been very impressed by the ongoing collaboration between my Department and Causeway Coast and Glens Council and the difference it is making."
