All-Ireland winning Laois town runs 'No Mow May' competition

Abbeyleix Tidy Towns is running a "No Mow May" competition, inviting residents to let their lawns grow wild in support of pollinators.

They say the project is inspired by Rachel McKenna's innovative "summer swirl" lawn design from Co Offaly. The competition is aligned with the All Ireland Pollinator Plan and aims to raise awareness about the importance of pollinators and create habitats that support their survival. 

"We're encouraging participants to unleash their creativity by cutting innovative shapes and pathways into their lawns.

"By reducing the frequency of lawn mowing and embracing natural wildflower growth, participants can transform their lawns into vibrant havens for biodiversity.

"We were inspired by Rachel McKenna's beautiful 'summer spiral' lawn design and wanted to bring a similar initiative to Abbeyleix," said Robbie Quinn, Chairperson, of Abbeyleix Tidy Towns. "We believe that by encouraging residents to let their lawns grow and get creative with cutting patterns, we can create a positive impact on local pollinator populations."

The competition will culminate at the end of May. Winners will be announced in early June with prizes awarded to the three most innovative and pollinator-friendly designs.

Competition Rules:

1. Participants must refrain from mowing (at least some) of their lawns during May.
2. Participants are encouraged to cut innovative shapes and pathways into their lawns, inspired by nature and pollinators.
3. To enter the competition, participants must submit a photo of their lawn design with short caption to Abbeyleix Tidy Towns – you can post to Facebook (ABBEYLEIX) or Instagram (@abbeyleix_ireland)
4. Designs will be judged based on creativity, visual appeal, and their potential to support pollinator habitats.
5. Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and announced in the first week of June.
6. Prizes will be awarded to the top three designs (Prizes to be confirmed)
7. By entering the competition, participants consent to the use of their photos or videos for promotional purposes by Abbeyleix Tidy Towns/ All Ireland Pollinator Plan

Environmentally friendly project that help biodiversity and contribute toward climate action are a big part what helped Abbeyleix Tidy Towns win the national SuperValu Tidy Towns Award in 2023.