Should Nashville take part in 'No Mow April'? Why one community won't mow their lawns next month

You might see your neighbor's grass growing a bit taller than usual this spring. The unkept lawns however, are probably intentional — at least in the Forest Hills neighborhood.

The city has pledged "No Mow April" in partnership with the non-profit organization, Cumberland River Compact. The organization works to positively impact water quality through partnerships and education.

Participants in "No Mow April" will avoid mowing their lawns during the month of April in an effort to contribute to environmental conservation efforts.

The rest of Davidson County is encouraged to do the same. In 2023, over 200 yards were pledged. This spring, the Cumberland River Compact is aiming for ever more participation.

"The Cumberland River Compact recognizes the link between healthy lawns and water quality. Transitioning yards to resemble native habitats prior to urbanization offers conservation advantages that support local waterways and ecosystems," said the city of Forest Hills in a news release. "The Compact urges residents to give their mower a break to contribute to these vital efforts."

For those interested in participating in the initiative, they may sign up at crc.kindful.com. As long as participants display the "No Mow" yard signs they are provided and maintain their grass below 12 inches, they will not be fined by Metro Codes.

What are the benefits of 'No Mow April?'

According to the Cumberland River Compact, a perfectly groomed lawn being the pinnacle of lawn care is a popular American myth. In reality, maintaining a pristine grass lawn takes up a lot of resources and is detrimental to the environment.

According to the non-profit organization, the Natural Resources Defense Council, lawn care in the United States results in the use of 3 trillion gallons of water, 200 million gallons of gas and 70 million pounds of pesticides annually.

Allowing lawns to grow tall leads to improved water quality, reduced carbon emissions and increased pollinator activity.

"In many cases, converting our yards to reflect what the native habitats looked like before urbanization leads to conservation benefits that help our waterways and ecosystems thrive," said a statement from the Cumberland River Compact.

Longer grass can reduce runoff by absorbing more water during rain events which helps prevent soil erosion and reduces the amount of sediment and nutrients that enter nearby waterways, said the Cumberland River Compact. Additionally, giving the mowers a rest for a month can help significantly reduce carbon emissions, leading to cleaner air and a healthier environment. Lastly, weeds' and plants' pollinator periods are extended when given the opportunity to grow wild which helps support pollinators such as bees, butterflies and moths they said.

Diana Leyva covers trending news and service for The Tennessean. Contact her at Dleyva@gannett.com or follow her on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter at @_leyvadiana

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Nashville, don't mow your lawn in April? Why one community is doing it