**Introduction**
The Exeter Parks and Recreation Department in New Hampshire is taking a futuristic approach to park maintenance by introducing robotic lawn mowers to assist their maintenance workers. This innovative move was recently approved by the Select Board, with funds coming from the Recreation Revolving Fund. Parks and Recreation Director Greg Bisson believes that this investment will not only improve efficiency but also benefit the local community and sports leagues.
**Innovative Solution to Staffing Shortages**
With only two maintenance workers responsible for maintaining 56 acres of parkland, the Exeter Parks and Recreation Department has often had to rely on contractors for mowing services. By introducing seven robotic lawn mowers, Bisson hopes to alleviate the workload on his staff and allow them to focus on other essential park maintenance tasks. This forward-thinking approach demonstrates the department’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve and embracing new technologies to enhance operations.
**Cost-Effective and Sustainable Solution**
The decision to invest in robotic lawn mowers and a field-painting robot was not taken lightly, but Bisson is confident that it will pay off in the long run. The lightweight and sustainable nature of these robots makes them an environmentally friendly choice for park maintenance. Additionally, the ability to operate the robots late at night or early in the morning without disturbing park visitors is a significant advantage. By utilizing the automated paint liner, the department can also assist local sports leagues with field maintenance, creating a win-win situation for all parties involved.
**Inspiration from Industry Leaders**
Bisson credits his inspiration for bringing in the robots to a conference he attended last fall, where he learned about their successful implementation in various settings, including college campuses and Fenway Park. By following in the footsteps of these industry leaders, the Exeter Parks and Recreation Department aims to streamline their operations and improve overall efficiency. While robots may never fully replace human workers in a park setting, they can certainly complement their efforts and enhance productivity.
**Looking Towards the Future**
The ultimate goal for the Exeter Parks and Recreation Department is to have the robots up and running by mid-April, just in time for the busy spring and summer seasons. By embracing new technologies and investing in innovative solutions, the department is positioning itself as a leader in park maintenance and setting a precedent for other communities to follow. With a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and community engagement, the introduction of robotic lawn mowers marks a significant step forward for Exeter’s parks and recreation facilities.
**Conclusion**
In conclusion, the decision to bring in robotic lawn mowers and a field-painting robot represents a bold and forward-thinking move by the Exeter Parks and Recreation Department. By investing in these innovative technologies, the department is not only improving efficiency and productivity but also demonstrating a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. With the goal of getting the robots operational by mid-April, Exeter is poised to set a new standard for park maintenance and inspire other communities to follow suit. The future of park maintenance is here, and it looks bright with the introduction of robotic lawn mowers in Exeter, New Hampshire.