Some council-owned open spaces in Taunton and Minehead will see their grass cut less often to support the climate.
After Somerset Wildlife Trust identified suitable areas for nature recovery, Somerset West and Taunton Council developed a grassland management strategy.
However, popular parks will keep the grass short.
This strategy will identify ways to support wildlife by changing mowing habits based on whether open spaces are used frequently, moderately or high-use.
It will allow those who manage sites in the district to decide the best method of cutting.
Cllr Andy Sully is the SWT executive member for environment services. He stated: Our new strategy aims to ensure that council-owned land can be managed with both people, and nature in mind.
Areas that are used frequently by residents and visitors, like our flagship parks, play areas or open spaces close by houses, will always have access.
In areas that are less used, the strategy and decision tree will allow us to choose the best mowing program in accordance with our climate commitments.
The authority declared a climate emergency as well as an ecological emergency. This highlights the importance of open space management in meeting environmental challenges.
It has been trying out changes in how open spaces can be managed to improve biodiversity. This includes sowing wildflowers and allowing some grasses to grow longer.
Cllr Dixie Darch is executive member for climate. He stated: We can improve biodiversity in our parks, open spaces and parks by collaborating with Somerset Wildlife Trust on this strategy for grassland management.
Long grass is well-recognized for its benefits in protecting wildlife habitats, providing shelter and food for invertebrates, improving biodiversity, and supporting pollinator populations.
I am delighted that we were able to incorporate climate and ecological considerations in our strategy, which is consistent with our commitment to place climate and environmental responsibility at heart of all.
Simon Clarke is the head of Somerset Wildlife Trust’s nature recovery department. He stated that this shows a strong commitment and will demonstrate how small changes in land management can make a big difference in adapting to climate changing.
It provides opportunities for a wide range nature to thrive.”
