The Kansas City Parks and Recreation Department is feeling the impact of COVID-19. With parks being utilized at an unprecedented rate, crews are struggling to keep up with maintenance and trash.

Several staff have been impacted directly by COVID-19, and some have had to self-quarantine for various reasons, according to the department.

COVID-19 has also impacted the department’s budget.

“Due to budgetary constraints, we are decreasing our mowing cycles by a combined total of six cycles across our parks, boulevards and parkways,” according to a statement from the department.

KC Parks maintains over 12,000 acres of green space in the city. The department is ranked second among city departments at 60%, only behind the Kansas City Fire Department (KCFD).

The mowing time between cycles will extend to three or four weeks between cycles in parks and four weeks on boulevards and parkways.

“We know our open spaces are an amazing asset, and our Park crews continue to take great pride in their work,” the statement read. “If you see a team member in the park and feel so inclined, please thank them for their service.”

The department is offering tools, gloves and bags to assist with litter pick ups. Those interested can contact parks.volunteer@kcmo.org. The department is also hiring. Open positions can be found on the city’s website.