November 16, 2006 – (Charlotte, NC) – The rapid change in temperatures this fall has leaves falling at a faster rate then normal for the season.  As a result, the amount of yard waste at the curb has been heavy, creating collection problems for Solid Waste Services crews.  Solid Waste Services is currently operating on a delay in collecting yard waste.  This trend is expected to continue through next week.  To ensure that crews do not get further behind collection crews will work this Saturday.

 "Even with the Saturday work we may still be behind schedule next week," said Solid Waste Services Deputy Director Victoria O. Garland.  "The good news is that we expect the leaves to have all hit the ground by next week, which means we should resume or regular schedule soon.  Please be patient with us."

 Residents are asked to remember the following yard waste collection procedures when preparing materials for collection:

• Separate limbs into piles small enough for one individual to handle.  Piles should be no more than 75 lbs and no more than 4 ft. high or 5 ft. long. 
• Place leaves and grass clippings in untied plastic bags or uncovered trashcans.  This helps expedite the collection process and allows crews to verify that the yard waste is not contaminated with non-yard waste material.  Bags do not have to be clear, but dark-colored bags must be untied.

City crews cannot collect:

• Tree stumps, limbs or logs larger than 4 in. in diameter or 5 ft. in length.  
• Limbs and other yard waste resulting from commercial tree service.
  

For more information about yard waste, garbage, bulky item and recyclables collection, click: http://curbit.charmeck.org.

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