“They’re open Tuesdays and Thursdays 10 to 7,” said Maggie Yauk. “Saturday 9 to 5 and Sunday noon to 5.”
Yauk is a recycling and resource solutions employee for Anoka County. She believes bringing yard waste to compost sites is an earth-friendly way for residents to do their part.
“Compost is a great soil amendment for all soil types and it helps with water retention,” Yauk said. “It helps add nutrients and microbes to the soil that plants really need.”
Earlier this week there was a steady stream of traffic entering the Rice Creek location. People brought in yard debris, branches and cut up trees – and in most cases it didn’t cost them a penny.
“The first two cubic yards of tree waste, six inches in diameter or less, is free to Anoka County residents,” Yauk said. “Then yard waste, the first four cubic yards of yard waste. Things like leaves, grass, brush clippings. Those are free.”
Win-win
Terry and Nancy Imsdahl of Lino Lakes got rid of some debris on a crisp Tuesday morning.
“Two truck loads of leaves,” Terry said. “Lot of trees.”
Terry thinks anyone not using a compost site is making a mistake.
“I’d say you’re crazy,” Terry said. ” If you’re a resident it’s free for leaves. That’s amazing. Yard waste is a little more. It’s just the way to go. Period…Just to get rid of it is wonderful. A place to put it.”
Besides piles of leaves, trees and grass, there are mounds of unscreened compost at Rice Creek – which is free for residents.
“Everyone is taking advantage of this great resource…” Yauk said. “It’s a win-win for residents and for businesses.”
The Bunker Hills and Rice Creek sites also accept food scraps for composting and will take emerald ash borer tree waste. Anoka County is part of Minnesota’s quarantine area.
