The Kaw Valley Greens have long asked the city to stop using pesticides in public places.

Their wish is coming true in a limited way.

Avis and Phil Foster take their evening walk past Clinton Parkway Park. Wednesday city commissioners will set aside the four-mile stretch along Clinton Parkway as a pesticide-free park, along with Parnell Park and Ludlam Park.

On Wednesday, the city of Lawrence will dedicate three areas encompassing more than 12 acres as “pesticide-free parks.”

“Those are pretty small parks, but it’s a start,” said Terry Shistar, a member of the Greens. “I think they can do it in the other parks, too.”

The parks:

A four-mile stretch of grassy city right-of-way along Clinton Parkway, between Iowa Street and Clinton Lake.

The 2.7-acre Parnell Park, 901 E. 15th St.

The 1.7-acre Ludlam Park, 2800 W. Ninth St.

Officials say they already use little pesticide in city parks, but the Greens have pressured them to reduce it further. The new designations are the result.

“We’ve had requests from citizens for these types of facilities,” said Crystal Miles, the city’s horticulture supervisor, “and we’re going to do our best to provide them.”

Parks users will have to increase their tolerance of weeds and pests in the designated parks, officials warn. If the parks are invaded by a noxious weed poison ivy, for example the city may return to pesticide use. The program will be evaluated on a regular basis.

Members of the Greens say they hope the program will be expanded to other parks.

“I’m glad the city is starting to think about their pesticide use,” said Marie Stockett, another Greens member. “I’m concerned about the other areas that will be treated here, but I think it’s a good start.”

A public observance of the launch of the new policy will be at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday near the limestone buffalo sculpture at Clinton Parkway and Lawrence Avenue.