Section 7: Non-Mow or Natural Areas and Acreage Evaluations
Introduction
Each district maintenance engineer, vegetation manager or
designated representative must evaluate all unpaved sections of
right of way to establish non-mow or natural areas and calculate
acreage to be mowed. The department encourages consultation with
the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) field biologists
to maximize the wildlife habitat benefits on a local basis.
Establishing Non-Mow or Natural Areas
Maximize the designation of non-mow or natural areas throughout
the right of way. Suitable non-mow or natural areas may include
steep slopes, wide rights of way, and other areas which are covered
with desirable vegetation. Clearly mark these areas to prevent accidental
mowing during modified full-width mowing.
Calculating Acreage to be Mowed
In addition to the establishment of non-mow areas, the amount of modified full-width and strip acreage to be mowed must be calculated in whole acre units for each section of roadway. These figures will be used in drawing up contact bid proposals and determining maintenance costs.
Reminder: new policy states that, “Mowing width outside the pavement shall be limited to a maximum of 30 foot in rural areas with very wide rights-of-way or medians.”
Acreage Calculation Chart
contains a table for calculating mowing area, shown here as Figure 2-18.
Figure 2-18. Acre Calculation Chart