Autumn is beautiful—crimson, gold, and rust-colored leaves carpet lawns and roadsides. But as picturesque as leaf litter may seem, it poses a serious threat when it ends up in our streets and storm drains. Here’s why it’s worth taking a few extra minutes to keep leaves where they belong.
The Problem with Leaves in Streets & Storm Drains
Nutrient Pollution in Stormwater Runoff
Leaves contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic compounds. When they sit in streets, rain can leach these nutrients into stormwater, which then flows untreated into ponds, rivers, and coastal waters. Elevated nutrient levels fuel algae blooms and degrade water quality. This is one of the core concerns raised by local stormwater programs like Cape Cod Stormwater’s outreach efforts.
Clogged Storm Drains & Flooding Risks
Leaf debris accumulates and can obstruct storm drains, reducing the drainage system’s capacity to convey water during heavy rains. Blocked drains raise flood risk in streets and neighborhoods.
Habitat & Ecosystem Impacts Downstream
Once nutrient-rich runoff enters streams, it can change oxygen levels, harm aquatic life, and alter natural habitat balance. Sediment and fine organic matter also smother streambeds and shellfish beds.
What You Can Do: Simple Actions, Big Impact
- Don’t blow or rake yard waste into the street: Whether it’s leaves, grass clippings, or brush, keep it off the pavement.
- Consider mulching or composting leaves instead: Use a mower mulcher to shred leaves in place (they break down as “green matter” in your lawn) or build a backyard compost pile away from streams or wetlands.
- Dispose of yard waste responsibly: In the Town of Barnstable, residents can dispose of leaves at the Barnstable Transfer Station, provided they have a valid residential permit. Leaves should be loose and not in plastic bags.
- Organize a neighborhood cleanup: Especially before or after storms, organizing leaf cleanup around catch basins and neighborhood streets helps prevent debris washdown.
- Support local stormwater policies & education: Stay engaged with town efforts, bylaws, or educational campaigns about clean water and stormwater best practices.
Why It’s Worth the Extra Effort
- Protects water quality—lakes, ponds, rivers, and coastal waters benefit
- Reduces flood risks locally
- Helps maintain ecological balance and aquatic life
- Fosters community pride in clean landscapes and healthy waters
The next time leaves start falling, treat them as more than décor. They’re part of a system that, if mishandled, can end up harming water bodies, flooding streets, and costing towns money. By mulching, composting, or disposing of them properly—and by keeping them out of our streets and storm drains—we all contribute to cleaner, safer, healthier neighborhoods and watersheds. For more tips, follow @BarnstableWaterResources on social media!