Well, this is a new one. You’ve probably heard of No Shave November to raise money to go toward Cancer awareness. What about “No Mow May?”

When I first read about this, I thought it was maybe something about noise complaints. Though that may just be my personal beef with lawn equipment? (I mean, it’s 2022, how have we not created quieter technology? But I digress..)

It’s actually a much more practical reason: to save the dwindling bee population.

That’s right, to quote "Arrested Development’s" GOB Bluth… “BEES?!”

Yes, GOB, bees.

Experts are suggesting not mowing your lawn to help grow weeds that bees coming out of hibernation would use as a food source.

For anyone doubtful of how much this would actually have an impact on the Garden State’s environment: a town in Wisconsin already tried this a few years ago and the results were promising.

GillTeeShots
GillTeeShots
loading...

Lawns of residents who participated in “No Mow May” were compared to parks that kept up with the landscaping. According to BeeCityUSA.org:

“Participating yards had three-times higher bee species richness and five-times higher bee abundance than nearby parks that had been mowed.“

Those numbers are nothing to stick your nose up at, this could greatly benefit New Jersey’s bees. U.K. environmentalists tried it before the U.S. did and their numbers were even better! Towns that participated there increased their numbers by up to five times.

close up of honey bees flying
bo1982
loading...

Bee City USA also provided ideas for lawn sign promoting “No Mow May” for those who may be embarrassed by the act of letting their lawn go un-mowed for a whole month.

So would you be willing to let your lawn grow out during the month of May in order to help New Jersey’s bee population? Let us know in our poll below.

The post above reflects the thoughts and observations of New Jersey 101.5's Kylie Moore. Any opinions expressed are Kylie's own. You can follow Kylie on Instagram.

NJ beach tags guide for summer 2022

We're coming up on another summer at the Jersey Shore! Before you get lost in the excitement of sunny days on the sand, we're running down how much seasonal/weekly/daily beach tags will cost you, and the pre-season deals you can still take advantage of!

These are the best hiking spots in New Jersey

A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.
If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

NJ county fairs make a comeback: Check out the schedule for 2022

UPDATED 4/10: A current list of county fairs happening across the Garden State for 2022. From rides, food, animals, and hot air balloons, each county fair has something unique to offer.

(Fairs are listed in geographical order from South NJ to North NJ)

More From New Jersey 101.5 FM