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Allowing green spaces to be naturalized opens door to tick, rat populations: councillor

Allowing for naturalized green spaces in Cornwall, Ont. may have its environmental benefits, but it’s creating new problems, city council has been told.

Coun. Todd Bennett says allowing grass to grow higher through naturalization encourages a migration of ticks and rodent populations to grow. At Menard Park, where grass in one section is mowed only a couple of times each year, neighbouring residents are experiencing a rat problem.

Ticks naturally cling to tall grass and attach themselves to people and animals who brush against the vegetation.

The discussion about ticks and rats began after council awarded tenders for mowing services at various city locations.

Coun. Syd Gardiner said he was concerned about the ramifications of the “No Mow May” campaign that is soon approaching.