The parks and maintenance teams are responsible for clearing snow on 90+ miles of trails and sidewalks, around 30 acres of parking lots and the entrances of 41 buildings and facilities. Trails are cleared with either a pickup and plow or a tractor and blower depending on the severity of the storm. 

The goal is to have routes cleared in 8 hours, however large amounts of snow and high winds can complicate and delay the process. After crews have finished the entire route they will start back at the beginning to clear ridges created by City of Fargo plows and drifting snow. 

Crews continue to mow grass and mulch leaves until a snow event or until front and frozen ground prevent continued mowing due to the risk of turf damage. 

Our teams get smaller in the fall as seasonal staff leave, so if you notice any areas that might need more attention, please let us know by submitting a service request form or by texting "MOW" to 701-997-7275. 

Crews begin tilling community gardens for winter preparation in mid-October. All produce must be harvested and stakes, fencing and other tools and materials removed before October 15. Anything that is not removed will be taken to a landfill, recycled or tilled up. If a plot is not cleaned properly and in a timely manner the tenant will be notified and future use of the garden may be denied. 

River accessories such as kayak launches, floating bridges and docks must be removed each fall. Kayak launches are generally removed starting mid-October and floating bridges and docks are removed once temperatures are consistently low enough to allow for ice to form on the river. If snowfall is predicted, accessories might have to be removed earlier than usual as these conditions can make it more difficult and dangerous for crews and equipment. 

All of our parks are public spaces and open to the community year around, but some amenities must be closed in the fall as the season gets colder. Park amenities will typically close once snowfall begins. Water is shut off and bathroom are closed once freezing temperatures are forecasted. 

Make sure to keep an eye on Fargo Park District social media and the Latest News page for facility and amenity announcements. 

The Fargo Park District employs mowing crews dedicate to golf courses, sports fields and park areas. Park areas consist of over 1,200 acres of mowed property and are maintained by two different types of crews made up of more than 25 seasonal staff. Large and open areas of parks are mowed by large area mowers and trim crews then mow and trim the smaller areas that are not accessible to the large mowers. 

The goal is for most parks to be mowed weekly at a cutting height of 2.5". Weather, equipment and staffing can cause unexpected delays at times.