Spring is here, and it’s about time to spruce up our yards. Let’s talk about handling yard waste like a pro! To help divert these materials from the landfill, SWACO has compiled a list of resources that are easy to utilize and can play a part in keeping your outdoor areas ready for enjoyment.
Yard Waste Curbside Pick-Up:
- Most local communities provide curbside yard waste collection to residents. To participate in these programs, residents should put yard waste in biodegradable paper bags, available at most grocery and hardware stores, or place it in a container clearly marked “yard waste” and set on the curb. Be sure not to bag yard waste in plastic, like garbage or grocery bags, as these materials are not accepted through compost pick-up programs.
- Include leaves, grass clippings, shrubs, weeds and brush, and twigs and small branches.
- DO NOT include food or pet waste, dirt, rocks, plastic bags, plastic or glass bottles or other litter commonly found in yards and bushes.
- DO NOT include plastic pots that new trees, shrubs and flowers come home in. Instead, reuse these items. Use this link to see if there is a nursery near you that will accept pots or simply place them in the trash.
- For information on yard waste collection day or additional details on your local program, contact your local community.
Yard Waste Drop-Off:
SWACO subsidizes the cost for Franklin County residents to be able to drop off their yard waste materials for FREE at processors who turn yard waste materials into compost and mulch. Visit swaco.org/200/yard-waste for a list of those drop-off locations as well as a list of the materials accepted and hours of operations.
Backyard Composting:
Composting at home can also help to minimize the amount of yard waste that enters the landfill. Compost adds nutrients to plants, retains soil moisture, and offers a natural alternative to chemical fertilizers.
Getting started:
- Check with your local government regarding any rules or regulations pertaining to properly composting at home.
- Gather grass clippings, leaves and brush to create a home compost system.
- Download SWACO’s easy-to-use Compost at Home Guide.
- Watch a pre-recorded webinar on how to start composting at home.
- The rich humus produced can be used for the lawn and garden.
Using these options makes keeping yard waste out of the landfill is easy to do and benefits the environment and the community by saving space in the landfill, reducing the amount of greenhouse gases generated and promoting the use of natural, renewable resources.
