10/23/2006
Media Contact:
Margie Smith-Simmons, 327.4669 |
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You rake it, we’ll take it
INDIANAPOLIS -The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) will soon begin to collect fallen leaves throughout Marion County. Last year, more than 18 million pounds of leaves were collected during the annual leaf collection program.
From Monday, November 6th through Friday, December 1st, up to 30 bags of leaves will be picked up each week, free of charge, in addition to the allowed 10 bags of solid waste. To ensure a successful collection effort, Indianapolis residents are asked to follow these guidelines:
o Place leaves in plastic or paper bags;
o Place leaf bags out by 7am on your regular trash day;
o Clearly identify and separate bags of leaves from regular trash (Place them on opposite sides of the driveway, place in different colored bags, or use different color tie wraps); and
o Up to 30 bags of leaves and 10 bags of trash will be collected each week.
Residents should take special care to ensure that sewer inlets and drainage pipes are kept clear of leaves and debris to avoid serious drainage and flooding problems.
Because leaves can be recycled into a useful end product, DPW composts the leaves collected and makes them available to the public free of charge. Compost can be used as a soil conditioner, potting soil or mulch. Using compost improves soil aeration, drainage and nutrient exchange - improving the health of lawns and helping gardens grow. Free compost from last year's program may now be available at the Southside Landfill, 2577 S. Kentucky Ave, 317.247.6808.
As a reminder, it is illegal to burn leaves in Marion County. Smoke from burning leaves pollutes the air with many harmful ingredients, and is hazardous to young children and people with heart and lung disease.
For further information please call the Mayor's Action Center at 327.4622 or visit ww.RecycleIndianapolis.org.
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