Proper Disposal of Grass Clippings and Leaves
The fall months are starting to approach in Michigan and that means we will be blessed with peak autumn leaf viewing when the coloring-turning leaves are at their best colors. This also means your lawn is about to be covered in more leaves than any other season. Disposing of yard waste, including grass clippings and leaves in lakes, rivers, streams and wetlands is harmful to water quality and can also cause flooding. Yard waste contains natural fertilizers like phosphorus and nitrogen. When it enters waterways, these nutrients wash into streams and ponds, fueling excessive algae and aquatic plant growth, which can deplete oxygen, suffocate fish and disrupt the entire ecosystem. Leaves and debris on roads and storm drains block water flow, increasing flood risk and causing localized flooding. Thankfully in Michigan there are ways that fallen leaves and grass clippings can be disposed of that comply with state and local laws to protect the environment and avoid fines.
Three ways of proper disposal:
1. Composting
A very eco-friendly way to use yard waste is to compost. This is nature’s way to naturally breaking down matter and works to help revitalize the soil for the next planting season. Start early in the fall, shred leaves, mix with nitrogen sources (grass clippings, kitchen scraps) and store until spring to get the most from your compost. Composting at home can give you a way to help enrich your soils, reduce the need for fertilizers, while reducing methane gas emissions from landfills. See the link below for tips on how to start an at home compost. *Disclaimer: DO NOT compost materials if they promote disease, cause odors, attract pests or create other nuisances.
2. Mulching
Mulching leaves in Michigan is a low maintenance, high-benefit method that improves lawn health while reducing phosphorus and oxygen depletion in our waterways. It involves using a mower with a mulching or recycling blade to chop leaves into small pieces and leave them on the lawn where they can decompose and return nutrients to the soil. Compared to raking/bagging, mulching is faster and avoids landfill waste.
3. Utilize Yard Waste (paper/bulk Bags)
In Michigan, yard waste bags are a legal and eco-friendly way to dispose of leaves, grass clippings, small twigs and other organic yard waste-but must be used in compliance with state and local rules. Always check your city’s waste service season (often April-Nov) and purchase bags/tags from approved vendors to avoid contamination and service issues.
By following these guidelines, you can safely handle and dispose of yard waste in Michigan while helping to protect the environment. See the following links below for yard waste services in SAginaw Area.
Rubbish Services | City of Saginaw, MI