Mowing dikes

We mow twice a year almost everywhere. 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 flee there. Before we start mowing the first round, ecological experts check the dikes for nesting birds and other nests. These nests are digitally marked and we mow around them. Or we don't mow that plot at all. We almost always remove the clippings. During the second mowing round between September 1 and October 15, we mow everything. This allows us to thoroughly inspect the dikes for damage before the storm season begins.  

Mowing for water safety

We mow the dikes for water safety: good dike covering protects the dike and keeps the soil firmly together with the roots. An additional advantage is that mowing allows us to see more clearly where there are bare patches and whether there is any other damage that needs to be repaired. That is why the entire dike is mowed in September, prior to the storm season. 

If we don't mow, the vegetation becomes overgrown and only the fastest-growing plants, such as grasses, nettles, and thistles, remain. If these continue to grow, nothing else will grow underneath them, creating bare patches, which in turn leads to erosion. This compromises water safety. Mowing helps plant diversity because it gives vulnerable species, such as herbs or species that emerge later in the year, a chance to flourish. Mowing also ensures healthy soil. 

Mowing and removal

Mowing is done mechanically by a contractor or by our own employees. We almost always remove the clippings. If the clippings are left lying around for a while, insects can escape and find a safe haven. If the clippings are left lying around for too long, bare patches will appear. These are suitable growing places for dominant grasses, nettles, and thistles, which will then multiply. And we don't want that. By removing the clippings, we encourage (flowering) herbs, which in turn enhances biodiversity. Removal also means that fewer nutrients end up in the soil, which (oddly enough) is also better for biodiversity. 

Lawn management around works of art

We keep the grass short around our locks and yards to ensure accessibility. This allows us to work there safely.