Doing Iowa's Spring Yard Work, the Right Way
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
DES MOINES, Iowa - Although the Iowa Legislature banned yard debris from landfills in 1989, homeowners still have to dispose of it.
Reo Menning, a spokeswoman for Metro Waste Authority, lists a number of options, including creation of a usable compost pile at home.
"In backyard composting, you don't have to limit it to your yard waste. You can also put in things like food scraps, coffee grounds - so it gives you a bigger option. Particularly if you are a gardener and you can reuse it, that's a great option for you."
Every community deals with yard debris differently, she says. Some allow burning, but others have passed burn bans - and for good reason.
"There are particles that get released that can impact lung capacity. The smoke will also have toxics in it, and carbon monoxide - so, don't breathe it."
Residents who want to compost yard waste but don't have a local drop-off or curbside pick-up may be able to take their yard waste to their local landfill, Menning says. Most of them now have composting programs.
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