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If left on sidewalks, driveways, or roads, grass clippings and other yard
wastes will wash away with the next storm. Although leaves and other plant
debris accumulate naturally in streams and lakes, homeowners can contribute
excess amounts of plant matter, especially in areas with many homes. This
can lead to water that is unattractive or green with algae, potential fish
kills, and make areas unsuitable for recreation because of debris or algae
blooms.
Burning yard waste is not an environmentally friendly alternative — and
in some areas, it is illegal. Hydrocarbons and nutrients released by burning
leaves contribute to water pollution as well as air pollution. Rain washes
smoke particles out of the air, and runoff picks up dust and ashes left on
pavement or in ditches. Avoiding the problem is easy: sweep clippings back
onto the grass, and compost leaves and garden wastes on your property to
recycle nutrients. For more information on composting and grass cycling, see
the North Carolina Cooperative Extension publication Grasscycling and Composting: A Guide to Managing Organic Yard Wastes.
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Which answer best
describes how you handle grass clippings, leaves, and other yard waste?
a. Grass clippings, leaves, and other yard wastes
are swept off paved surfaces and onto lawns away from water flow routes.
Leaves and other yard wastes are composted.
b. Leaves and other yard wastes are piled on the lawn next to the street for
collection.
c. Grass clippings, leaves, and other yard wastes are left on driveways,
streets, and other paved areas to be carried off by stormwater. Yard waste
is burned on-site; OR do not know. |