The leaves, fruit, and other debris are falling, and here are a few ways to manage those piles:
- Clear fallen fruit, leaves, and grass clippingsfrom sidewalks. They are a hazard to runners, bikers, and walkers.
- Help keep leaves out of storm sewers and waterways where they become a source of water pollution.
- Leaves can also build up along curbs, gutters, and storm drains, which clog city storm sewers and can result in localized flooding during heavy rains.
- Start a compost pile or add leaves to an existing one. Composted leaves and other organic materials are excellent for fertilizing gardens in the summer. It provides necessary nutrients and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Use a mulching mower to chop leaves into small pieces, which will decompose directly on lawns. The leaf pieces can also be collected and spread around flowerbeds and shrubs as mulch.
- Do not rake leaves onto the street.
- Do not let leaves or grass clippings wash into storm drains. They not only contaminate the water, but can also cause clogging and lead to flooding.
- Stormwater does not go to a treatment plant, so any pollutants on the ground will flow into our rivers. Let’s all do our part to keep our streams and rivers healthy!
Learn more about leaf disposal at: https://www.warrenville.il.us/840/Leaf-Disposal