Environmental board recommends ‘No Mow March’ proclamation to council to help pollinators

Board member Bennett Martin presented a proposal urging the city to promote a voluntary No Mow March, an IFAS- and University of Florida-supported outreach program encouraging residents to delay mowing for a month to protect early-season pollinators. Martin outlined four specific actions: request a proclamation or resolution, encourage participation on appropriate city-managed properties, share UF/IFAS educational resources, and promote the program through city communications.

Martin told the board the program is voluntary and low-cost and stressed its alignment with Florida-friendly landscaping principles. "I respectfully request that the Environmental Advisory Board make a motion to the city of Fort Myers and council to consider the following actions," Martin said. A motion to recommend the proclamation was moved, seconded and approved; staff said the board liaison to council will carry the item forward.