Sioux Falls Parks & Rec Department Now Using Nine Robotic Mowers Across City

In a scene that feels like it was borrowed straight from The Jetsons, the City of Sioux Falls is now using a fleet of robotic mowers to keep some of our public spaces looking sharp.

And while robotic lawnmowers aren't exactly brand new, they're definitely becoming more common. I actually watched one tackle my neighbor’s yard on Sunday, and I have to admit, it seemed to be doing about as good a job as a 14-year-old kid you would need to pay $20 to do the same thing.

According to Pigeon 605, Sioux Falls Parks & Recreation has been using robotic mowers several times a week for some time now in areas including medians, boulevards, and garden spaces at Tuthill Park and McKennan Park.

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The city first began experimenting with the technology last year, when it had four robotic mowers. Now, that fleet has grown to nine.

Apparently, the Parks & Recreation crew is pretty happy with their new little robotic employees.

One groundskeeper told Pigeon 605 that these machines are the future of mowing.

The mowers are guided by satellites, don't require a subscription, and can consistently maintain grass without someone having to physically drive a mower around all day. They quietly go about their business, just cutting grass.

Eventually, the thinking is that groundskeepers may spend much less time sitting on riding mowers and much more time handling trimming, landscaping, and other maintenance tasks that require an actual human touch.

And let's make sure we give credit where it's due: Sioux Falls does a pretty good job keeping its parks and public spaces looking nice. The city makes an effort to mow at least once a week in many areas, helping keep the grass under control and weeds from taking over.

So, if you happen to spot one of these robotic lawnmowers cruising around a public park in town, don't panic. There's no need to call John Connor.

Skynet isn't plotting against us, quite yet.

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However, I wouldn't be surprised if we find the city of Sioux Falls saying, "Jane! Get me more of these crazy things!” in the coming years.

One thing is for certain: they're not cheap. Your garden-variety robotic lawn mower typically costs around $6,000 at the moment.

So, I don't think little Billy, the kid down the street who's willing to mow yards for 20 bucks, has anything to worry about just yet!