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Resident urges city to protect fireflies near Walnut Creek ahead of dog‑park expansion
Summary
A Mansfield resident told council that large numbers of fireflies inhabit property adjacent to the proposed linear trail and urged city parks staff to inspect the site and consider light‑pollution and trampling risks before dog‑park phase‑two development.
During public comment on May 12, resident Louis Harden said his property along the planned linear trail near Walnut Creek hosts a dense firefly population and urged the city to take measures to protect the insects ahead of nearby development.
Harden, who provided his address for the record, described counting up to 50 flashes in 10 seconds on a summer evening and said he has run a small public event he called the "Mansfield Firefly experience." He warned that heavy visitation, light pollution and pesticide use threaten the insects’ habitat and urged parks staff and the council to view the site prior to construction of phase two of the dog park, which he said will place visitors near the creek.
Harden cited examples of ecotourism elsewhere and recommended that the city consider protective measures; he asked staff to inspect the property and meet with him to see the firefly congregation. Mayor Evans thanked Harden for bringing the issue to the council’s attention. The meeting record does not show a scheduled follow‑up or a staff commitment to a site visit during this meeting.
