This fall, the Wellesley Department of Public Works is asking homeowners to properly dispose of leaves and pet waste.
Fallen leaves contain a natural fertilizer called phosphorus. When leaves are mulched and left in yards to decompose or are composted, they add nutrients to soil and plant beds
. Leaf litter left in yards also helps insulate plants and protect them from harsh winter weather.
However, leaves that are raked onto sidewalks or illegally dumped in parkland or wetland can cause water pollution and flooding. The leaf litter clogs catch basins, preventing stormwater runoff from entering the drainage system and resulting in back ups.
If you rake your leaves, bag them in brown paper bags and bring them to the Recycling and Disposal Facility (RDF). Check the RDF webpages for hours of operation.
Pet Waste Disposal
Pet waste pollutes and harms waterways. It decomposes and increases the growth of algae and weeds, and water becomes murky, smelly, and not usable for swimming, boating or fishing.
Help prevent pet waste from entering waterways by properly disposing of it.
- Bring bags when walking pets.
- Scoop up pet waste and throw it in trash receptacles or in the toilet.
- Keep pets on leashes near water.
- Never throw pet waste bags into catch basins.