DPW Announces Leaf Disposal Options for Greenfield Residents and Business Owners
Every fall, the DPW reminds home and business owners that it is a city ordinance violation to rake or blow leaves onto the tree belt or into the street. Preventing idle leaves is an important measure, as they can often block storm drains and cause drainage problems during storm events. In addition, decayed leaves will be pushed back onto lawns by the plows during the winter, creating worse conditions for sidewalks and driveways. Greenfield residents can undergo three methods for leaf disposal:
1. Leaves can be brought to the Greenfield Transfer Station compost pile without charge. Leaves must be either loose or in compostable paper bags. If brought in plastic bags, the leaves must be emptied and bags taken back after drop-off. Transfer Station hours are Tuesday through Friday 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturdays 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Hours on Saturdays from January 15 to March 15will be 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m.).
2. Residents and business owners can schedule curbside pickup with the DPW for a $10 prepaid fee for up to 20 compostable paper bags. All curbside leaves and grass clippings must be in compostable, 30-gallon paper bags. Curbside collection is on Fridays by appointment from November 3 through December 1. Please call the DPW Office at (413) 772-1528 to schedule an appointment.
3. Another option is to start a leaf composting pile in a property’s backyard. When composted, leaf piles create soil-enriching compost that can provide positive benefits to gardening. Compost bins are available at the Transfer Station for $25. For those interested in learning more about starting your own leaf composting pile, you can contact the DPW Office (413 772-1528) to have a home composting guide mailed to you or visit the DPW’s webpage on composting:
https://greenfield-ma.gov/departments/dpw_department_of_public_works/trash_recycling_and_compost.php