Parks & Recreation

Frequently Asked Questions - Parks & Beautification

• What tree grows best in Clearwater?
• What causes that thick mat of webbing on tree limbs and trunks, and is it harmful to the tree?
• Does Spanish moss kill trees?
• What's the best fertilizer for lawns?
• How do you control Oleander caterpillars?
• Does Parks & Beautification use reclaimed water for irrigation?
• Who do I talk with about questions, safety concerns, or maintenance at recreation facilities?
• Who is responsible for cleaning and maintaining Clearwater Beach?
• Is the City responsible for cleaning the beach behind privates homes on Clearwater Beach?
• Who is responsible for maintenance (mowing, trash pick up, etc.) in City Parks?
• What is considered right-of-way for tree-trimming?
• When do hardwood trees in the rights-of-way on my street get trimmed?
• What are the hours of operation for the parks?

Q: What tree grows best in Clearwater?

A: Clearwater city limits include a wide array of soil and site conditions that should be considered before planting any tree, but the best suited trees for most soil conditions is the "Live Oak" (quercus virginiana). The Live Oak is tolerant of many pests and adverse conditions such as salt spray and drought. The Live Oak has been adopted as the "City Tree" for Clearwater due to its' top notch performance and the benefits it provides.

Q: What causes that thick mat of webbing on tree limbs and trunks, and is it harmful to the tree?

A: The webbing is spun by Psocids or "Bark Lice", which feed on mosses and lichens growing on the tree. They cause no damage to the tree. If necessary, the webbing can be washed off using a high pressure nozzle on a garden hose.

Q: Does Spanish moss kill trees?

A: No. Spanish moss is a bromeliad, or "airplant". It merely anchors itself to the trees and derives all its' water and nutrients from the air and water that falls on it. You'll see moss growing on fences, wires, and other non-living structures. Heavy accumulations of moss can cause limb breakage in rain soaked wind storms since the wet moss becomes heavy.

Q: What's the best fertilizer for lawns?

A: Usually a fertilizer with a 3-1-2 ratio of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium is suitable, applied at a rate of one to one and a half pounds of Nitrogen per thousand square feet of turf. Most soils in the Clearwater area are very high in Phosphorus content and because Potassium is as leachable in our sandy soils as Nitrogen, we recommend equal percentages of Nitrogen and Potassium, with no or very little Phosphorus. Have a sample of your soil tested for nutrient content through the Pinellas County Extension Office.

Q: How do you control Oleander caterpillars?

A: Early detection of caterpillar outbreak is important in controlling the amount of damage done by the Oleander caterpillar. Usually one application of a non-chemical pesticide containing Bacillus thurengiensis (a bacteria that kills the worms once they consume it) will do the trick.

Q: Does Parks & Beautification use reclaimed water for irrigation?

A: Yes, we use reclaimed water where available. Only sites close by and including our Wastewater plants are irrigated with reclaimed water. Our water tank trucks, which water trees, plants, etc., in unirrigated areas, also use the reclaimed water. More will be utilized as reclaimed water distribution lines are installed throughout the city.

Q: Who do I talk with about questions, safety concerns, or maintenance at recreation facilities?

A: The majority of the questions would be directed to the General Maintenance Section. For specific areas of concern, use these numbers:

• Playground Equipment: (727) 462-6563 x226
• Ballfield Lights: (727) 462-6566
• Fitness Stations: (727) 462-6563 x226
• Athletic Fields: (727) 462- 6563 x225

Q: Who is responsible for cleaning and maintaining Clearwater Beach?

A: The Beach Maintenance Team is responsible for cleaning Clearwater Beach. Time schedules vary. Please call (727) 462-6563 x225 for more information.

Q: Is the City responsible for cleaning the beach behind private homes on Clearwater Beach?

A: No, it is the property owner's responsibility.

Q: Who is responsible for maintenance (mowing, trash pick up, etc.) in City Parks?

A: The Clearwater Parks & Recreation Department. Please call (727) 562-4800.

Q: What is considered right-of-way for tree-trimming?

A: Generally rights-of-way are any City owned property in front of privately owned property. Locations vary and should be inspected by City staff. Please contact the Urban Forestry Division in the Public Services Department at 562-4950 for more information.

Q: When do hardwood trees in the rights-of-way on my street get trimmed?

A: When the City is notified by City residents or employees that trimming is needed due to a potentially hazardous condition. To report trees that need trimming in the rights-of-way, please contact the Urban Forestry Division in the Public Services Department at 562-4950.

Q: What are the hours of operation for the parks?

A: Park hours vary throughout the City. Parks are closed from Sunset to Sunrise unless otherwise posted.