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Reducing Yard Waste PDF Print E-mail

Yard trimmings are the second largest component of America's waste stream (paper is the largest), and recent recycling efforts have resulted in 62 percent reduction in the amount of yard trimmings that make their way into landfills. One way to cut down on this number even more is to re-use your grass clippings. The annual clippings from a 5000 square foot lawn can add up to one ton!

Many people no longer think of grass clippings as garbage, and instead view them as a valuable resource! Instead of throwing your clippings away when you mow, consider three easy alternatives.

  1. Leave the clippings where they fall. By doing this, you recycle the nutrients in the grass as it breaks down, which reduces the need for lawn fertilizer.
  2. Use the clippings as mulch over tree roots, garden beds, and other areas in your yard to keep weeds at bay, reduce erosion and rain water run-off, and reduce moisture loss from evaporation on warm days.
  3. Grass clippings are a great addition to your compost pile.

 

Reduce Yard Waste by Composting

Backyard composting is easy. Grass clippings, leaves, weeds, dead plants, non-woody clippings and vegetable and fruit scraps will break down inside the compost bin. Bins help keep compost tidy in small yards. When compost is dark brown, crumbly and looks like soil, it can be added to soil in garden beds or placed under shrubs. Finished compost will improve your soil and feed your plants.

Why Compost?

By composting you:  

  • Recycle plant waste back into the soil
  • Help save space in the City Landfill
  • Save $ on your garbage bill

To start composting here's how to order your FREE compost bin.

To order your compost bin call the City of Watsonville Customer Service Division at 768-3133 and schedule a delivery appointment.

To be eligible for the free compost bin, you must have a yard that generates trimmings and live within the City limits of Watsonville. Compost bins are property of the City of Watsonville and remain at the property if you move.