Late season rains and recent heavy fogs have resulted in a longer vegetation growth season. In recent years, weed abatement and landscape maintenance consisted of removing weeds systematically throughout the City until the issue was mitigated. This year, because of the steady regrowth, crews are continuing to revisit areas that were previously complete. As temperatures rise, weed mitigation becomes significantly critical to the safety of our community.

Residents can help our City crews deal with the growing weed issue by volunteering long-term with the Adopt-A-Green Space Program. The Adopt-A Green Space Program welcomes individuals or groups who want to volunteer their time and efforts on a regular basis to care for a specific park or green space in Santa Rosa. Participants commit to adopting a space for at least a year and performing tasks such as weeding, planting, seasonal maintenance, litter removal, graffiti removal, or other special projects; select a space. Once your adoption of a green space is confirmed, a sign will be posted at the adopted location bearing the name of the adopting group or individual.

At home, property owners need to keep their property weed free, especially the front and side yards of homes abutting sidewalks. Vacant lots must also be kept free of weeds. Residents can help to address vegetation growth issues by reporting them on the City’s Mobile app, MySantaRosa.