On March 18, members of the Firecracker Circle of the Garden Club of DeLand were recognized for their efforts in “increasing green infrastructure and supporting natural ecological systems” through the initiation of a seasonal program called DeLand Less-Mow Spring.

Mayor Chris Cloudman, members of the DeLand City Commission, and DeLand City Forester Mariellen Calabro presented an official proclamation to Firecracker Circle members present at the regular meeting of the City Commission March 18.

“They are encouraging all of us to, not necessarily give up mowing altogether, but at least give up areas of your yards and business areas,” Cloudman said. “You can leave the flowers in place and attract the pollinators. We encourage everyone to join.”

On March 22, members of the Garden Club and Mayor Cloudman gathered together at the “American Dog” statue located at West Howry Avenue and South Clara Avenue to plant” an official “Less-Mow Spring” placard. This represents an area of municipal land that will be mowed less frequently as a part of the official proclamation and environmental effort.

According to the proclamation, “Recent research demonstrates that pollinators utilize ‘No-Mow’ or ‘Less-Mow’ areas as critical sources of nutrients during early spring in Central Florida.” 

DeLand is known as Florida’s first Monarch City USA — a nationally recognized program that encourages municipalities to directly help recover a vanishing population of monarch butterflies by planting milkweed and nectar plants. Additionally, DeLand is a 38-year participant in Tree City USA, the Arbor Day Foundation’s recognition of American “green communities.”

March 18, 2024, is now officially proclaimed to be the start of “DeLand Less-Mow Spring” and “all citizens are urged to support efforts to protect and care for our native pollinator species” — a heartfelt addition to DeLand’s tangible efforts in protecting and sustaining ecological wellness.