Around Fremont, street flooding during rain storms can cause inconveniences for many, and severe water damage to basements and foundations for a few. Don’t be one of the few, and avoid turning rainfall into catastrophe – clear fallen leaves from sidewalks, curbs and streets. To encourage this clearing, the City of Seattle will provide free yard waste pick-up to residents, through November.
Seattle residents are encouraged to clear leaves and other debris, and collect it all in their yard waste bins and appropriate bags. The City will allow up to 10 extra (compostable) bags of yard waste per collection day for free. Clearing street drains and other natural drainage of blockages will protect homes, sidewalks and other low points from ponding and flooding.
Of course, raked leaves can also be used as mulch on bare soil, to conserve water, control weeds and fertilize soil. A layer of fallen leaves can protect landscaping and gardens through winter freezes and some erosion. For more information on using leaves as mulch, the City recommends calling the Garden Hotline at 206/633-0224, or check the website (click here.)
As to clearing street storm drains already covered in leaves, the City encourages using a rake, shovel or dustpan to collect the debris – and wearing protective gloves if you must use your hands (never clear street debris with bare hands.) Please, never lift a city storm drain grate! Always stand on the curb when clearing street drains, not in the vehicle thruway. And please put any grimy leaves, trash and other non-compostable debris in the garbage, not the yard waste.
For more info, visit the City Of Seattle At-Your-Service website (click here.)