Fall Leaf Clean-Up Tips

Did you know that grass and leaves can be harmful to our waterways?

Many leaves will naturally fall into the water, but as homeowners, we should be mindful not to upset nature’s balance.  The leaves that fall on our lawn should never be put in a creek, stream or river.  Excessive decaying leaves use up the water’s oxygen, harming animals that live in the water.

Leaves can also get into our creeks and streams through storm drains.  Leaves and pollutants can easily be washed into the storm drain when it rains. 

When cleaning up this year’s leaf drop, follow these simple steps to keep our waterways clean!

• Follow the guidelines in your community for curb-side pick up.  If you are asked to put leaves on the tree lawn, wait until just before collection day.  Never rake them into your storm drains, ditches, creeks or rivers. 
• Mulch leaves by running over them with your lawn mower at your next cutting.  Leaves and grass clippings are the best fertilizer for your lawn. 
• Or….rake leaves into a compost pile for a nutrient-rich fertilizer to use on your garden next spring.

For more information on how you can be the solution to storm water pollution, contact the Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District at 216-524-6580, check out our website at www.cuyahogaswcd.org, or friend us on Facebook (search for Cuyahoga Soil and Water Conservation District).