Grass clippings
Mowing provides a range of community and environmental benefits. However, grass clippings need to be managed appropriately to prevent them from entering our waterways. If they enter waterways they contribute to higher nutrient levels which can result in algal blooms.
Mowing does not occur within 5 metres of the high‐water mark of a water body other than in specified access zones or recreation areas. Specific guidelines are in place for mowing around:
- Isabella Ponds grassland
- Lake Ginninderra Foreshore
- Lake Tuggeranong District Park (south).
The guidelines enable the creation of thicker grass to filter runoff before it enters a water body, and to protect significant vegetation and rare plants.
Our mower operators are trained in mowing principles and practices. This includes safe work procedures, environmental care, mechanical basics and in the field knowledge.
These mowing practices provide mitigations from grass clippings entering the storm water system. For example, mower operators ensure grass clippings are evenly spread over the area and not left in windrows. When mowing around stormwater drains or culverts they also ensure the discharge is pointing away from the drain.
When it is safe to do so, staff use blowers to blow grass clippings back onto grassed areas. The new electric mowers have a built-in air blower on the front of the machine to assist in clearing grass clippings away from footpaths.
The team also use turbo blowers and a streetsweeper to move grass clippings away from gutters and hard standing areas.