Right-of-Way Mowing Height Research: Literature Review

摘要

The focus of this project is to develop practical information and recommendations211u001eon the relationship between height and frequency of mowing. There is concern that 211u001ecurrent mowing practices are not timed to maximize the viability of the mixture 211u001eof plants found in highway right-of-ways. It is hoped that mowing frequency can 211u001ebe reduced in some locations to minimize right-of-way maintenance costs. This 211u001eproject is intended to determine the optimum mowing height with respect to 211u001emaintaining a viable stand of acceptable vegetation, reseeding of annual plant 211u001ematerials especially native flowers and the frequency of required mowing. The 211u001eoptimum height must also be considered with respect to the total cost of 211u001emaintenance of right-of-way vegetation. To accomplish objectives, plots will be 211u001eestablished in four locations and responses measured to various treatments of 211u001emowing height and frequency of mowing. Measurements will be taken on plant 211u001epopulation changes, morphological development, root depth, ground shading, and 211u001ecarbohydrate reserves in plants. In addition, data will be collected on the 211u001erelated issues of mowing height and mower speed versus rooster tails, and on the 211u001equantity and size of debris that might impact the choice of mowing height.