Lawn care companies navigate drought and rising fuel costs
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Spring has arrived in North Carolina, but worsening drought conditions are creating new challenges for lawn care businesses. Fifteen counties are now experiencing severe to extreme drought, including in the Triangle.
"You can look right here and tell this grass hasn't been touched this year ... it ain't growing," Michael Dodson said.
Dodson, owner of Mike's Lawn Care Landscaping, said a combination of dry weather and rising fuel costs is putting increased pressure on local companies.
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"This morning, I filled up just one lawnmower -- it was $47," Dodson said. "I will fill up again before we go back home, it'll be $200 for my truck."
March is typically when business begins to pick up for Jonathan Womack, owner of Macks Lawn Care Service LLC. However, he said he's had to shorten his service routes to conserve fuel, even as customer demand continues to grow.
With drought conditions persisting, Womack emphasized the importance of proper lawn maintenance, including weed control and efficient irrigation.
"You want to make sure your sprinkler system set up to the right conditions to water your grass to get enough water if we are in the drought season," Womack said.
He added that daily watering isn't necessary right now - just a few times a week should be sufficient. However, more frequent watering may be needed as temperatures rise in the summer months.
A statewide burn ban is in effect for North Carolina.
