Any time it rains, it happens. Objects around the yard such as buckets, toys, planters, or unused equipment fill with water providing a breeding ground for mosquitos. Please take a few moments after every rain to check your yard for any objects that might collect standing water. Boats and kayaks, when left uncovered or unattended, can also accumulate rainwater and sprinkler overspray. Regularly emptying all vessels and containers helps prevent mosquitoes from breeding and keeps our community healthy and mosquito free.
Just a reminder that The Lakes does not require winter grass overseeding, but we do require that you maintain your dormant lawn. Which means the removal of weeds and basic maintenance such as occasional mowing. We made it through a hot summer and some of the vegetation in your yards didn't make it. So, please remove any dead plants and replace them with new ones. It's important to keep our Community looking its best, so please do your part in maintaining your property.
Last month, I lost my good friend of 32 years, Don Kirkland. I worked with him on many projects throughout the years including The Lakes Log. Don was passionate about his newspaper career which he had the opportunity to do right until the end.
For thirty years, Don diligently published the Lakes Log. His dedication and commitment have made an invaluable difference in keeping our community informed and connected. His efforts helped shape the spirit of our community, and we are deeply appreciative. He will be missed.
There will be a Celebration of Life for Don Kirkland at The Lakes Beach and Tennis Club on Saturday, November 8 from 2 to 4 PM. Those of you who knew him are invited to attend.
If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to call me; 480-332-0050.
Christine
As we continue to maintain the beauty and property value of The Lakes, I want to address a growing concern: the unacceptable condition of many lawns throughout the neighborhood.
What is a lawn?
Let’s begin by clarifying a basic question: What is a lawn? A commonly accepted definition refers to an area of ground covered with grass that is regularly maintained—mowed, watered, and cared for. A patch of mostly weeds cut short does not meet this standard. Neither does a lawn left yellowed, with patchy bare dirt, or shaggy due to neglect.
Water
In our Tempe climate, a Bermuda grass lawn requires at least two waterings per week to stay healthy and green during the summer months. The volume of water matters—if your lawn is still yellow, brittle, or uneven after regular irrigation, it's not getting enough.
Mowing
Mowing is another key part of upkeep. Even though many homeowners rely on biweekly services, Bermuda grass typically requires mowing once a week to remain tidy. If your lawn looks overgrown after seven days, it should be mowed more frequently.
Weeds
Equally important is weed control. A yard consisting mostly or entirely of weeds is not a lawn—it's a sign of neglect and is not acceptable in The Lakes. The most effective method for removing weeds is applying a post-emergent herbicide for actively growing weeds. This should be done consistently throughout the growing season. Hand-pulling may help in small areas but is not practical for larger infestations. Weed control is just one part of maintaining a healthy, attractive lawn—alongside proper watering, mowing, and fertilization. Ignoring any of these elements leads to the kind of deterioration we are unfortunately seeing too often in the community.
It's also important to remember: a lawn service only does what it’s contracted to do. If the results are insufficient, the homeowner—not the service—is responsible for the outcome. Simply hiring a service does not remove your obligation to ensure your property meets community standards.
If you have a lawn, you should also have the means to maintain it. That means owning a hose, sprinkler, or timer system, and yes—even a lawn mower. Our properties are reflections of our pride in this community. Maintaining them is not optional—it’s a responsibility we all share.
Let’s continue working together to make sure The Lakes remains a place we’re proud to call home.
Christine