Mowing dikes
Almost everywhere we mow twice a year. Between June 1 and July 15, we leave half of the vegetation standing. Birds, amphibians, reptiles, butterflies and other animal species can settle there or take refuge there. Before we mow the first round, the dikes are checked by ecological experts for breeding birds and other nests. Those nests are digitally marked and we mow around them. Or we don't mow that plot. We almost always dispose of the clippings as well. During the second round of mowing between September 1 and October 15, we mow everything. This allows us to properly inspect the dikes for damage before the start of the storm season.
Mowing for water safety
We mow the dikes for water safety: a good dike lining protects the dike and keeps the soil with the roots firmly together. An additional advantage is that mowing allows us to better see where bare spots are and or other damage that needs to be repaired. Therefore, in September, prior to the storm season, the entire dike is mowed.
If we do not mow, the vegetation becomes more overgrown and only the fastest growing plants such as grasses, nettles and thistles are retained. If these continue to grow, nothing grows underneath them, creating bare spots, which in turn leads to erosion. And that puts water safety at risk. Mowing helps plant diversity because it also gives vulnerable species, such as herbs or species that emerge later in the year, a chance to flourish. And mowing also ensures healthy soil.
Mowing and removal
Mowing is done mechanically by a contractor or by our own employees. We almost always dispose of the clippings. If clippings are left for a while, insects can escape and find a safe haven. If the clippings are left for too long, bald patches are created. These are suitable places for dominant grasses, nettles and thistles to grow and multiply. And we don't want that to happen. By removing grass clippings we actually stimulate (flowering) herbs that enhance biodiversity. Removing them also reduces the amount of nutrients in the soil, which (oddly enough) is also better for biodiversity.
Lawn management around structures
Around our locks and yards, we keep the grass short for accessibility. This allows us to work there safely.
