CARMEL VALLEY >> The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District will step up mowing grounds at two popular parks it preserves and protects in Carmel Valley.

Palo Corona and Garland Ranch regional parks will have mowing done in the coming weeks especially along the trails of the Rancho Canada unit of Palo Corona Regional Park, according to a press release from the Regional Park District.

Recognizing the need for protection of wildlife, management of trails and fuels reduction, Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District has been consulting with wildlife and fire agencies and other experts to take great care in following best management practices in park land and fuels management, especially during nesting season for sensitive wildlife species, said a press release from the Regional Park District.

“Our field biologists are surveying for wildlife in preparation for mowing the grounds,” said Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Planning and Conservation Program Manager Jake Smith in the release.

Initial surveys are expected to be completed this week, while mowing has already begun in areas that have been surveyed.

When hiking in the parks, visitors will see signage posted to inform them of areas being mowed. Cutting the vegetation can cause an increase of dust, seeds and allergens in the air around the site. Mowing the Rancho Cañada unit of Palo Corona Regional Park is expected to continue over the next two to three weeks.

The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District has been preserving and protecting parks and open space since 1972. The Regional Park District says it is committed to being an inspirational, inclusive, respected, sustainable, and valued regional park district that collaborates with and serves the community and its conservation needs through interconnected open spaces, public parks, education, and advocacy for the entire community.