Knowledgebase
Lawn destruction #738166
Asked March 08, 2021, 6:22 PM EST
Wayne County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello
This is vole damage, often seen this time of year as snow melts and the grass is exposed. This information explains more, and what you can do-
“When the snow recedes and the turf first becomes visible in the spring, vole damage can appear dramatic, especially when coupled with other issues such as low temperature injury or snow mold. As noted above, however, voles feed only on turfgrass shoots and the vital crown tissue and root system are typically not disturbed. Very often, grass plants will re-grow in the damaged areas as the weather warms. Practices that can encourage rapid recovery include thorough raking (especially to remove accumulated excrement) and a light application of fertilizer. For extra insurance or repair of areas that do not recover acceptably, overseed with a compatible mix of grasses.”
The complete article with more on vole control is here- https://ag.umass.edu/turf/fact-sheets/vole-damage-to-lawns
For more on voles, and over seeding grass in spring, from MSU Extension- https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/tips_for_reseeding_lawns_in_the_spring
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/winter_damage_to_lawns_molds_moles_and_voles