Mowing of road verges
Three rounds of mowing for road safety
In the months of May through September we mow the verges along our roads and bicycle paths in three rounds of mowing. We only do this along the roads that HHNK maintains. These are roads outside the built-up area in the municipalities of Purmerend and Waterland. We mow the verges for traffic safety; a clear view is important for everyone on the road. So that we can see each other and make allowances for each other. We mow with respect for flora and fauna. Where it is responsible, we keep the verges flowery.
We mow in three rounds. We start with a so-called "safety round," in which we mow one to one and a half meters on either side of the pavement and the entire intersections. We also mow around traffic-control objects, such as traffic signs, scare fences and point blocks. This round will last from about May 15 to June 1.
Then, in the second round of six weeks, June 1 to July 15, we mow the verge where it is necessary for traffic safety and for maintaining the road ditch. In one location this is the whole verge, in another we mow only part of it. The third round is from August 24 to October 1. Then we mow the roadsides completely.
Different mowing techniques
Mowing is done mechanically by a contractor hired by us. Mowing is done "technically" or "naturally".
Technical mowing
'Technical mowing' we do in areas of low natural value. These are places where the verge is narrow, where there are many trees and/or cables are buried. It is a quick cost-saving mowing method. The grass is clipped (bruised) during mowing, so it digests better and faster.
Nature-based mowing
'Nature-technical mowing' we do in verges with greater natural value, for example because there are special plants. Here, the clippings are removed so that the soil is not suffocated. These verges are often wider than five meters. This method of mowing and removal stimulates biodiversity.
Our area managers are supervisors and point of contact for explanation of our mowing management.
Conflicting desires
We do our best to meet everyone's needs as much as possible. Sometimes the interests are conflicting so we cannot always satisfy everyone. Also, we cannot be everywhere at once in our mowing rounds. We ask for your understanding for this.
If you have questions and comments, please contact the Water Board, tel. 072 582 8282.
For more information (including on mowing levees and watercourses), see the Mowing page.