The Hampton Department of Public Works is advising residents to bag their leaves and grass clippings this fall, instead of blowing them into the street. The department states that yard waste left on streets or sidewalks can accumulate in curbs and gutters, which may cause drainage issues and flooding. This debris can also end up in local waterways if it is washed into storm drains.
According to the department, city street sweeping services are intended to pick up only leaves that fall naturally onto the road. When large amounts of yard debris are blown into the street, it disrupts the process. Blocked gutters may prevent sweepers from accessing certain areas, resulting in some roadways being missed.
Residents are encouraged to collect yard debris in clear plastic bags weighing no more than 50 pounds each, which will be picked up on regular trash days. Alternatives include raking leaves into plant beds for mulch or using a mulching blade on mowers to return nutrients to lawns.
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