As fall settles in and leaves begin to pile up, we’d like to remind all residents not to blow or rake leaves into the street. While it might seem harmless, this simple act can cause serious problems for our city and the environment.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Clogged Storm Drains: Leaves in the street often get washed into storm drains, leading to blockages that can cause localized flooding during rainstorms.
- Water Pollution: Leaves that enter the stormwater system break down and release nutrients into our waterways, which contribute to algae blooms, which harm fish and reduce water quality.
- Unsafe Roads: Wet leaves are slippery and can create hazardous driving or biking conditions.
What You Should Do Instead:
- Compost at Home: Leaves make excellent compost material. Consider mulching them or adding them to your backyard compost pile.
- Use Yard Waste Bags: Collect your leaves in yard waste bags or containers for your refuse hauler to collect.
- Offsite Composite Sites: Find local compost sites where you can haul them away to be composted.
We all play a part in keeping our city clean, safe, and environmentally responsible. Thank you for helping us maintain healthy neighborhoods and waterways this fall!
