by: Friends of Bidwell Park
Some things never change. Bidwell Park still has yellow starthistle (although probably much more than in 1941) and the Park Commission and City Council still are making decisions about the park's management without seeking any scientific input.
The Chico Enterprise, Wednesday Evening, February 5, 1941
More than half of Bidwell park will be cleared of noxious weeds by cultivation, it was decided by the city council last night in granting the Bidwell Park and Playground commission permission to rid the park of the pests.
Following protests of cultivation by Councilman E. L. Meyers, the group finally passed a resolution granting permission to eradicate the weeds “to the best knowledge and judgment” of the commission.
Meyers said the he always had and always will object to the cultivation of the park, saying that the practice ruins the sod and killed many plants and shrubs.
Chairman H. J. Barceloux, chairman of the commission, who appeared for his group, countered by saying that cultivation kept moisture in the ground and that the weeds, such as star thistle, would become so high that the public would not be able to walk in the park. To counteract the killing of young trees, Barceloux said the commission plans a planting program in open areas.
Councilman C. L. Schwein said that he favored eradication of the weeds and that cultivation would not hurt the park.
Meyers then stated that he would favor a move on one condition that grasses and trees be planted in the park. A discussion followed as to what type of grass would grow permanently. A large portion of the park west of Sycamore diamond is planted in Bermuda grass.
Mayor F. W. Seydel suggested leaving the matter to the park commission, which was done.
Dr. J. O. Chiapella, new member of the park commission, who appeared with Barceloux before the council, assured members that nothing would be done to damage the park in any way.
“We are all interested in the park and in the city of Chico.” He said, “and I am sure that the park commission will do nothing hurt either the park or the city.”
The motion passed unanimously.