Fall Foliage Cleanup Just Got Easier in Ann Arbor

Autumn is officially upon us. The beautiful fall foliage in Ann Arbor is breathtaking, but it can also can mean occasional headaches for homeowners. Those with smaller lots, or fewer trees, will benefit from the city's decision to replace curbside leaf pickup with weekly collection from compost carts (purchased from the city and stored on the owner's property). But a new program offered by the Arbor Environmental Alliance (AEA) could better serve those with more spacious lots and a greater number of trees.

AEA will pick up leaves and organic waste, curbside at your home, three times between October 15th and December 15th. The leaves and other organic material collected by AEA will be composted, and used in projects generated by AEA. Additionally, trees will be planted by AEA to offset emissions generated by pickup. The cost for three pickups is $90, which is approximately the same price as two of the city's compost carts.

AEA's mission is to restore the environment now, and to sustain the that improved environment, through conservation and stewardship, for generations to follow. AEA projects benefit from the wisdom and experience of career scientists, young scholars with new and innovative ideas, and alliances with organizational networks which promote and support their efforts. Projects to date have included work in forestation, agriculture, land restoration, and renewable energy sources. AEA is allied with the following organizations:

• Washtenaw Land Trust
• Mid-Michigan Conservancy
• Michigan State Extension Service
• ASTI Environmental
• Farm Bureau
• Delta Institute

If you'd like to have AEA work with you through their leaf collection program, you can sign up here or send them a message to get more information.

Martin Bouma -your Ann Arbor neighborhood expert - can help you find the perfect Ann Arbor home from which to enjoy the gorgeous fall foliage. Whether you're buying or selling a home, the Bouma Group can answer all of your questions about real estate in Ann Arbor. If you're considering settling down in Washtenaw County, Saline, or a specific Ann Arbor neighborhood, call the Bouma Group today! And don't forget to check out our Condo Hotline - we know the Ann Arbor condominium market better than anyone!