Every autumn, trees in Somerville change color and drop their leaves. The Borough collects these leaves using vacuum trucks. This is the usual way many towns handle leaf cleanup.
However, fallen leaves are more useful than many people realize. They help support local plants and animals, and removing them every year costs taxpayers money.
Leaves are a valuable environmental resource
Natural soil builder
Leaves are nature’s free mulch and compost. They break down over time and add organic matter to the soil. This helps lawns, trees, and gardens retain water and nutrients. Using leaves in this way can also reduce the need for fertilizers.
Habitat for wildlife
Butterflies, moths, fireflies, beetles, spiders, and other beneficial insects rely on leaves to survive the winter. Removing all leaves takes away their habitat.
Protection for plants and roots
A thin layer of leaves acts like a blanket. It protects garden beds and tree roots from freezing during the winter. This helps keep our trees and plants healthy.
Support for stormwater management
Leaves left on your property (not in the street) help slow rainfall, help water soak into the ground, and reduce runoff. This helps prevent flooding.
The financial cost of leaf disposal
Collection is expensive
Vacuum trucks need fuel, staff, and maintenance. They also must operate slowly to work safely.
Disposal costs are rising
Local farms that once accepted leaves for free are no longer available. The Borough now must transport leaves to processing facilities. These facilities compost the leaves and sell the material.
What taxpayers pay for:
- Collection
- Transportation
- Processing
- Buying compost that could have been made naturally at home
More leaves at the curb means higher costs
The more leaves placed at the curb, the more trips crews must make. This increase disposal costs. Reducing leaves in the street helps control municipal spending.
What you can do
Mulch leaves in place
If possible, leave leaves whole and rake them into planting beds. This preserves insect habitat.
- Run a mower over the leaves to break them down faster if you prefer a tidier look.
- Benefits of mulching in place:
- Keeps nutrients on your property
- Improves soil health
- Reduces fertilizer use
- Lowers the number of leaves the Borough must collect
Create a leaf-litter zone
Set aside an area under shrubs or trees where leaves can remain undisturbed. This supports pollinators, retains soil moisture, and protects plant roots.
Use leaves as garden mulch
Whole or shredded leaves make excellent free mulch for garden beds. They help suppress weeds and enrich soil.
Add leaves to your home compost
Dry leaves provide essential “brown” material for composting. They balance food scraps, reduce odor and create nutrient-rich compost. Learn how to compost at home.
Keep leaves out of the street
Leaves in gutters can clog storm drains and contribute to flooding. If you need curbside pickup, place leaves at the edge of your property, not in the roadway.
Avoid using gas-powered leaf blowers
Gas-powered blowers:
- Produce high carbon emissions and air pollution
- Disturb wildlife and soil habitat
- Spread dust, mold, pesticides, and other particulates
- Make significant noise
Electric models or rakes are quieter and cleaner alternatives.
A healthier town for everyone
Managing leaves on your property helps:
- Support native wildlife
- Improve soil and tree health
- Reduce stormwater issues
- Lower municipal costs
- Reduce emissions from heavy equipment
- Reduce noise and air pollution
Small actions add up. Responsible leaf management benefits your yard, your neighbors, and the whole community.
This page was written by the Somerville Environmental Commission.