Composting

Putting Leaves in Trash Bags at the Curb is a Violation!

A large percentage of typcial household waste discarded in the fall consists of leaves and other yard waste. When left at the curb and picked up with other trash, this natural, organic material often times ends up in a landfill instead of being composted (nature's recycling). This takes up space in our landfills that should be used for waste that has not other recycling or disposal options.

Remember: It is a violation for most landfills in the state to accept yard waste. A landfull may be subject to fines or penalties for accepting this material. A waste hauler may also be fined by the landfill and/or have his contract suspended. Residents can help by practicing composting in their homes, or taking advantage of leaf collection days at the curb.

For more information, contact the The Department of Environmental Conservation
or Cornell Cooperative Extension at 734 4453.

Other resources:

• Building bins and boxes for composting
• Worm Composting
• Home Composting