Jane Glenn | 6 May 2026
Residents across Ontario, including in Saugeen Shores, are being encouraged to take part in “No Mow May,” a conservation initiative that asks homeowners to hold off on mowing their lawns to help preserve local biodiversity.
The goal of the campaign, promoted by the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is to allow early-season plants such as clover and dandelions to bloom, providing an important food source for insects, bees and other pollinators. Early-blooming plants that support beneficial insects also bolster a food source for returning migratory birds.
Conservation experts say the timing is key. Early spring can be a critical period for pollinators emerging after winter, when food sources are limited. “It’s intended to give the insects and their food supplies a chance early on in the summer,” explains Matthew Braun, an NCC conservation manager.
“I think people are looking for ways that they can contribute, in their own backyards,” Braun said. Even common lawn plants that are often viewed as a nuisance or 'just a weed' play a valuable role. “Some of those dandelions are providing a service out there,” he added.
The "No Mow May" campaign was launched in 2019 by Plantlife, a UK-based charity and it quickly spread to other parts of the globe. Environmental groups say it has also served as a starting point for longer term changes, such as community efforts to use more native species and create pollinator gardens. Even a small patch or pot of endemic plants like milkweed, asters, beebalm or black-eyed Susans can be beneficial.
Residents who want to participate are encouraged to check local by-laws and be mindful of neighbours, as grass height regulations can vary. Some municipal councils have formally endorsed the initiative, while others are monitoring the impact before bringing motions to the table.
In Grey-Bruce, only Owen Sound has formally adopted "No Mow May" to date. Last year, their council passed a motion to update yard maintenance by-laws to allow lawns to grow freely until June 1.
Leaving uncut grass for a month may seem like an inconsequential act, however the cumulative impact across many properties can be meaningful, emphasized NCC project manager Claude Drolet. “Actions in countless backyards...can have great benefits for nature and the quality of our urban ecosystems."
