Jul 24, 2024 | Chris Soares | 897 views
SUFC partners on new Auto-Mower
Strathroy United has joined into a partnership with the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc to obtain an autonomous lawnmower.
Strathroy-Caradoc has entered into a groundbreaking partnership with Strathroy United Football Club (SUFC) to introduce the community's first autonomous lawnmower. The lawnmower by Echo Robotics, will maintain the fields at the Stadium Soccer Field at Yorkview Community Park, with minimal human intervention, ensuring consistently well-manicured lawns. With this new venture, the municipality aims to make soccer field maintenance more cost-effective and environmentally friendly, enhancing the playing surface quality for athletes and freeing up staff time for other essential tasks.
After a successful trial period, Council passed a resolution in mid-July to utilize the Progress through Partnership program to fund up to $20,000 towards the purchase. As part of the cost-sharing agreement, SUFC provided matching funds to help secure the mower.
Mayor Colin Grantham expressed excitement about the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a win-win for our community. It not only improves the maintenance of our public spaces but also aligns with our sustainability goals by reducing fuel consumption and emissions. We are proud to be at the forefront of integrating advanced technology into our municipal operations.”
Luis Duarte, Groundskeeper for the SUFC, echoed the Mayor’s sentiments, adding, “This mower has improved the quality of the playing surface by maintaining consistent grass height, rain or shine, which reduces potential injuries and enhances the game’s quality. Club members and our out-of-town visitors are extremely pleased.”
This initiative is part of Strathroy-Caradoc’s broader strategy to provide innovative and up-to-date services, engage in proactive planning, facilitate partnerships, and advance community goals for a vibrant and sustainable future. The partnership with SUFC also underscores the importance of community collaboration in achieving shared objectives.
The municipality extends its gratitude to the SUFC for their enthusiastic partnership on this project and looks forward to continuing to support high-quality local recreational facilities throughout the Strathroy-Caradoc community.