SELF-OPERATING MOWERS OK’D FOR CITY GOLF COURSES
Autonomous lawn mowers might become a fixture at the Naperbrook and Springbrook golf courses.
The Naperville Park Board has approved the purchase of two Toro Turf Pro 500SL Autonomous Mowers from Reinders Inc. for $76,757, less than the $80,000 budgeted.
Golf staff believe the courses’ driving ranges in particular will benefit from the new technology, according to a park district memo.
Currently, staff mow the turf once a week, requiring the driving ranges to close early and open late one day a week so that golf balls left on the ground can be picked up, the memo said. The new mowers, however, can cut the grass without damaging golf balls so the cleanup is unnecessary.
Other benefits include reduced labor and fuel costs, zero emissions and quiet operations, staff said.
The Forest Preserve District of Will County’s “Preserve the Moment” photo contest starts this month and awards prizes for monthly entries and for the best submitted throughout the competition. (Forest Preserve District of Will County)
‘PRESERVE THE MOMENT’ PHOTO CONTEST STARTS
The Forest Preserve District of Will County is holding a “Preserve the Moment” photo contest, which runs through the end of the year.
Participants can submit up to five original photos a month taken in a Will County forest preserve or on a trail for a chance to win gift cards and be featured on the district’s website and other publications.
From February through December, a panel of judges will select three standout photos per month that will go head-to-head in a public vote on the district’s Facebook page.
Monthly winners advance to the final round for a chance at first, second and third place overall, a district news release. Prizes include a $500 MasterCard gift card for first place, a $250 MasterCard gift card for second place and a $150 MasterCard gift card for third place, the release said.
Monthly winners will receive a $75 MasterCard gift card. At the end of the contest, three participants will be randomly selected to each receive a $75 MasterCard gift card.
Photos will be judged on focus, lighting, composition, creativity, storytelling and overall impact, with special attention to native species.
Rules are available on the district’s website at www.reconnectwithnature.org.