When it comes to leaves, know before you throw

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News Release November 5, 2014 Last updated by Eric Jones, 10/31/14 Contacts City of Eugene Public Affairs Manager Eric Jones, 541-682-5523 City of Springfield Communications Coordinator Loralyn Spiro, 541-726-2233 Lane County Public Works Road Maintenance Planning Jennifer Paugh, 541-682-6905 For Immediate Release When it comes to leaves, know before you throw Tips Schedules Maps While a Springfield leaf looks pretty much like a leaf from Eugene or metropolitan Lane County, it’s important to know the differences, particularly if you’re planning to put your leaves out for collection. Both cities and the county collect leaves for similar reasons. Removing leaves from catch basins, grates and gutters allows storm water to run off and prevents flooding. Keeping leaves out of the drainage system also improves water quality because decomposing leaves use up oxygen that is needed by aquatic life in local streams and rivers. And removing slippery leaves from streets and sidewalks makes travel safer for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. In all three jurisdictions, property owners are responsible, and bear liability, for leaves that are placed improperly in the street or cause safety or flooding hazards. Eugene and Lane County allow residents to pile leaves in the street, while Springfield only allows bagged leaves to be set out for collection. To get the best information for your property, determine which jurisdiction provides service in your area, and then contact that agency. Here are the details for each jurisdiction: City of Eugene Eugene’s leaf collection and delivery program begins Nov. 10 and includes some new features designed to improve service. After an initial focus on the central Eugene area, three crews on Nov. 17 will branch out into three “zones”: north Eugene, south Eugene, and west Eugene. The west zone will include all the properties in the River Road area south of Beltline, under a new intergovernmental street service agreement with Lane County. Each crew has the staffing and equipment needed to collect and deliver leaves and sweep streets after the leaves have been picked up. This puts resources closer to neighborhoods and improves service on unimproved streets. A new online feature allows Eugene residents to look up their address and see when collection is scheduled on their street. For more information about Eugene’s leaf collection and delivery services, go to www.eugene-or.gov/leaf or call Eugene Public Works Maintenance at 541- 682-4800.