Always read the pesticide label and pay careful attention to warnings on the potential for surface water contamination. Compost these materials instead and apply to garden soil. Yard Waste Disposal Yard waste, including leaves, grass clippings, fruit and vegetable wastes, and woody materials, should never be allowed to enter the water. These materials contain phosphorus and may contribute to degradation of surface water quality. Collect and compost yard waste.
Compost provides an excellent material for amending flower and vegetable gardens.
Information on composting is available from your county office of the University of Minnesota Extension Service or the County Solid Waste office. A Guide to Managing Organic Yard Wastes. FO-3296, University of Minnesota Extension Service The Home Lawn. MI-0488, University of Minnesota Extension Service Lawn Care Practices to Reduce the Need for Fertilizers. FO-5890, University of Minnesota Extension Service Soil Sample Bags and Information Sheets.