By Kate Hessling

October 6, 2008

Tribune Staff Writer

Lansing – Fall is in the air and – sooner or later – the leaves are going to begin shedding from trees and onto area lawns.

With this in mind, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality is encouraging area residents to explore alternatives to burning leaves this year.

The reason for that is because leaf burning creates air pollution, contributes to breathing problems, is a serious fire hazard, and is illegal in many Michigan cities and communities, according to a news release the DEQ issued last week.  Burning leaves releases particles, carbon monoxide, and hydrocarbons into the air that are particularly harmful to children and people with allergies, asthma or heart disease.

Although leaves and yard waste cannot be sent to a landfill, mulching and composting are simple way to manage most yard waste.

The DEQ says the easiest option is to simply mow over leaves with a lawnmower to chop them into fine mulch.  When left on a lawn, the mulch provides a number of needed nutrients for the grass that will keep it looking healthy.

Many communities also offer municipal composting programs, and residents can contact their waste hauler or local city, township, or county Department of Public Works office to find out whether they collect leaves and yard waste for composting.

In rural locations where responsible burning of yard waste is allowed, permits are required to burn leaves and brush.  Homeowners are reminded to obtain a permit before burning and that they are responsible for damage caused by a fire they start.

For more information, go to www.michigan.gov/deqair, and select “Open Burning Information” under Spotlight, or contact the DEQ Environmental Assistance Center at 1-800-662-9278.

Kate Hessling  (989) 269-6461 khessling@hearstnp.com