The City has adjusted mowing frequency in some areas, and discontinued mowing in other less-used green spaces. Parks that support high recreational use (like playgrounds, sports fields and storm detention ponds) continue to be mowed regularly. Other low-use areas like roadside edges or “transitional” green spaces will see reduced or no mowing. Overall, we have reduced mowing across the city by approximately 250 acres. Adjusting maintenance levels allows the City to reduce costs responsibly while still providing core services.
Mowing
Did you know 53% of Red Deer's 4,586 acres of parkland is natural areas such as wetlands, forest, and native grass areas? The other 47% (approx. 2,140 acres) of Red Deer’s green space are areas like major parks, neighbourhood parks, school playgrounds, sports fields, storm detention ponds, boulevards, roadway medians, berms and cul-de-sac islands.
Annually, mowing maintenance costs around $2.7 million. For 2025, The City of Red Deer made strategic budget adjustments to ensure long-term financial sustainability while maintaining core services. As such, mowing operations were reduced by 10% in the amount of $268,000.
Residents can expect the following:
- High-use areas like playgrounds, sports fields, retention ponds and neighbourhood cul-de-sac green spaces will continue to be mowed and maintained regularly.
- In less-used areas like roadside hills (aka berms) or non-recreational green spaces, you will see longer grass.
- No trimming around public infrastructure such as fences, benches, and signs.
- Some spaces will begin naturalization - a shift to native grasses and meadow-like conditions that reduce costs and support biodiversity.
How often will you mow this summer?
Mowing frequency varies by location and use. Core areas are maintained more often; others may be left to grow longer or naturalize.
Will this last all summer?
Yes. These changes are part of a larger cost-saving approach tied to the budget, which is determined annually.
Is there a mowing schedule?
We don't post exact schedules, as they vary based on weather, staff, and park needs. For specific concerns, use Report a Problem.
How were decisions made about which areas get mowed and which don’t?
We prioritize spaces that are heavily used by residents for recreation and community activities. Lower-use spaces, roadside edges, and transitional green spaces will receive reduced maintenance or in some cases, spaces will transition to more naturalized landscapes.
How much will these changes save?
The City maintains 4,586 acres of parkland. About 47% of that - roughly 2,155 acres - is manicured turf, requiring regular mowing and upkeep. This year we have reduced our mowing maintenance operations by 10%, resulting in savings of $268,000.
Why are these changes happening now?
Like many municipalities, we are responding to significant budget pressures. Service level adjustments are part of a strategic, long-term plan to ensure The City remains financially sustainable while still delivering core services that residents rely on. The goal is to focus resources where they matter most - while exploring more efficient and environmentally responsible ways to care for our public spaces.
Can I mow/trim spaces along my property and/or in my neighbourhood?
For safety and environmental reasons, we ask that residents not mow or trim City-owned parkland or public spaces, even if they're adjacent to your property. These areas are managed according to City maintenance plans, which help ensure consistency, protect habitat areas, and avoid unintended damage to infrastructure, native plants, or seedlings planted to assist in naturalization.
If there's an area you're concerned about, please let us know through Report A Problem and we'll review it as part of our scheduled maintenance or naturalization efforts.
There is garbage in un-mowed areas. Will the City clean it?
While some areas will experience less mowing, we're still committed to keeping parks clean. If you see garbage, please report it through Report A Problem, and we'll do our best to address it promptly. We also appreciate residents who help keep our spaces clean - it truly makes a difference!
Are overgrown areas a fire risk?
We monitor for fire risk, and naturalized areas are designed to remain safe. If you see something concerning, please use Report A Problem.