These leaves then go directly into lakes and rivers where the nutrients feed unwanted algae growth. When algae 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. One bag of leaves adds nutrients for about 100 pounds of algae to grow.

Options to dispose of leaves:

• Use a mulch mower to turn leaves into valuable nutrients. A mulching mower slices grass clippings and leaves several times before depositing them back into the grass where they convert into nutrients and valuable topsoil.
• Compost leaves 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 RamseyRecycles.com/yardwaste or call 651-633-EASY (3279), answered 24/7.
• Roseville residents can drop leaves at the Leaf Recycling Center on Dale St., south of County Road C. This site will be open from October 7 through November 27. Only leaves are accepted at this site. Please take all leaf bags, including compostable bags with you.
• Have your trash hauler pick up leaves in a separate cart or bag (leaves cannot be combined with trash). Haulers are required to take leaves to a compost facility. They may charge an additional fee.
• Hire a contractor to haul away your leaves. A list of leaf hauling businesses is available at www.cityofroseville.com/LeafContractors. This list is a representation of some companies in the Twin Cities area that provide lawn services. It is not a recommendation or endorsement. We encourage residents to check references before hiring someone to haul away the leaves.

If you have questions, contact Roseville Public Works at 651-792-7004 or publicworks@cityofroseville.com.