To: Albemarle County School District and Facilities Management
Cc: Woodbrook Elementary Administration

We, the undersigned residents of the Woodbrook neighborhood and surrounding community, respectfully request that Albemarle County Schools take action to mow and properly maintain the section of overgrown grass currently designated as a “Pollinator Garden” on the grounds of Woodbrook Elementary.

Our Concerns:
Appearance and Neighborhood Impact

The current area is primarily tall fescue grass, which does not produce blooms or seeds to meaningfully support pollinators.
Unlike true pollinator meadows, which include diverse wildflowers, the space appears unkempt and has become an eyesore for our neighborhood.
Health and Safety

Residents have noticed increased wildlife activity in backyards adjacent to the field, including snakes, rodents, and other animals.
Tall, dry grass presents a potential fire hazard, particularly in dry seasons when a cigarette butt or spark could ignite the area.
Concerns about ticks and mosquitoes are heightened with the unmanaged growth.
Loss of Recreational Space

For decades, the open field has been one of the few safe and wide-open spaces available to neighborhood children.
Children cannot use school grounds during or after school hours due to programming, making the field the only play area accessible outside of school time. Tall grass now limits its use for sports, games, and family recreation.
Our Requests:
That the district mow and maintain this portion of the school grounds on a regular schedule.
If a pollinator garden is desired, we urge the district to consider planting wildflowers and meadow plants (as seen in other county parks such as Darden Towe) that genuinely support pollinators while also enhancing the visual appeal of the space.
That community safety, aesthetics, and recreational use be prioritized alongside conservation goals.
We value Albemarle County’s efforts to encourage environmental responsibility, but we believe this current approach is not benefiting pollinators and is negatively impacting the health, safety, and quality of life for Woodbrook families.

We respectfully ask for immediate action to restore this area to a safe, attractive, and functional space.

Sincerely,
The Undersigned