No Mow May encourages residents and property owners to delay mowing until grass reaches four to six inches, supporting early-season pollinators and lawn health. Please note participants in No Mow May must comply with the City's Property Standards and Land Maintenance by-laws.
Pollinators
In 2021, City Council designated Belleville as a Bee City, recognizing the importance of protecting pollinators through education, habitat creation and sustainable land management. Bee City Canada is a national program delivered by Pollinator Partnership Canada. This designation supports a number of existing City initiatives that enhance green spaces, biodiversity and environmental resilience.
City Initiatives
Designated areas of City-owned land are maintained with reduced mowing to support pollinators and wildlife. Approximately eight hectares are currently maintained under this approach.
Residents are encouraged to leave fallen leaves in gardens and their lawns where possible. Leaf litter provides winter habitat for pollinators and improves soil health when mulched.
Our annual seedling giveaway event is partnership with Quinte Conservation which provides residents with seedlings and education to support pollinator-friendly planting.
Pollinator beds have been established along East Zwick’s Trail near the Bay of Quinte, featuring native clover species and wildflower mixes to support meadow habitat.
Our community gardens offer residents space to grow local food and native plants while supporting pollinator populations.
Urban Tree Canopy and Natural Vegetation Policy
The City’s Urban Tree Canopy and Natural Vegetation Policy (2019) guides tree protection, planting and data collection through an ongoing tree inventory.
Through partnerships such as Rotary Loves Trees and TD Tree Days, the City continues to expand Belleville’s urban tree canopy.
Why Pollinators Matter
Pollinators include bees, butterflies, moths, beetles, flies, birds and other species which are essential for:
- Food production
- Healthy ecosystems
- Biodiversity and climate resilience
Protecting pollinators helps ensure a sustainable environment for current and future generations.
How to Help
Pollinators need safe habitats in urban areas. One way residents can support pollinators by creating their own naturalized garden or replacing portions of lawn with native pollinator plants.
Contact Us
Sustainability
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