Spring has arrived, bringing with it the emergence of dandelions in our parks. Every year, we get questions asking, “Why doesn’t the Park District control the dandelions?” There are two main reasons:
First, we prioritize protecting our environment. Using chemicals to get rid of dandelions would harm the air, water, and soil in our parks. So, we avoid using them.
Second, dandelions are important to our ecosystem. They’re among the first plants to appear in spring and provide food for pollinators like bees and butterflies. Dandelion leaves also feed birds and other wildlife.
While the dandelions are around for a brief time, our Parks Team will soon mow them along with the grass, giving our parks a neat appearance. So, when you see the yellow flowers, remember they’re benefiting pollinators and wildlife, and ultimately, us too!
