Less mowing = more insects
Utrecht University is working to strengthen biodiversity in the Utrecht Science Park. Since 2022, we have therefore been managing the thirty-four hectares of grass on campus ecologically. This means that verges and lawns are mowed less often and in phases. This benefits insects in particular: in ecologically managed grass, insects find food, shelter and breeding ground.
Ecological mowing
From 2022, the roadside area and lawns on campus will only be mowed in phases twice a year. Phased mowing means skipping 15-30% of the grass at each mowing. Phased mowing keeps shelter, food and structure in the grass for insects and other animals. However, the edges of the berm surface and grass areas are kept short, so that road users can keep an overview of the traffic.
What will you notice?
The appearance of the USP is different from before. The grass will be longer and there will be more variety with flowering plants and insects.
The lawn near the Buys Ballot building before the new mowing policy.
October 2021
The lawn near the Buys Ballot building after the new mowing policy.
July 2022
Biodiversity restoration plan
From 2022, the biodiversity restoration plan is executed. The ecological mowing policy is part of this plan. In the coming years, more space will be made for biodiversity and green links will be established with the surrounding areas. With new thickets, ecologically managed grassland, nature-friendly banks and puddles, the habitat of a number of guide species will be expanded. The construction of an ecological connection between Oostbroek estate and Fort bij Rijnauwen will also start.