Leaves decompose and restock the soil with nutrients and organic matter. But when the leaves land on the street or sidewalk the decomposing bits wash down the street and into the storm drain. They go directly into lakes and rivers where the nutrients feed unwanted algae growth. When the alga dies and decomposes it uses up oxygen that fish and native plants need. It is important to rake up the leaves and keep them out of our streams and lakes.

Options to dispose of leaves:

• Compost and mix with other soil.
• Use as mulch to suppress weeds, conserve soil moisture and reduce soil erosion. Layer 2-4 inches of mulch around perennials to help them live through the winter.
• Drop off leaves at a free county yard waste site. Find locations at www.co.ramsey.mn.us/ph/rt/yard_waste_collection_sites.htm or call 651-633-EASY (3279).
• Roseville residents can drop leaves at the Leaf Recycling Center at the southeast corner of Dale Street and County Road C. The site will be open from October 3 through November 26. Only leaves are accepted at this site. Please take all leaf bags, including compostable bags with you.
• Leaves cannot be added to regular trash; however, you can arrange a pickup with your regular trash hauler. Haulers are required to take leaves to a compost facility. They may charge an additional fee.