Leaf Management and Runoff: Small Actions, Big Impact on Pigeon Lake
As autumn colors transform the Pigeon Lake District, falling leaves create beautiful scenery across our shorelines and neighborhoods. However, what happens to those leaves after they fall can have a significant impact on the health of Pigeon Lake.
Many people don't realize that leaves left in streets, ditches, storm drains, or along shorelines can contribute directly to the algae and water quality problems we work so hard to prevent.
How Leaves Affect Lake Water Quality
When fallen leaves collect in roads, ditches, and drainage pathways, rainwater begins to break them down. As the leaves decompose, they release phosphorus into the runoff water, creating a nutrient-rich "tea" that eventually flows into nearby lakes and streams.
Phosphorus is one of the primary nutrients responsible for algae growth. Once it enters Pigeon Lake, it can fuel nuisance algae blooms, reduce water clarity, affect fish habitat, and diminish recreational enjoyment for everyone.
The impact can be surprising. Research has shown that leaves left in streets and stormwater systems can be a significant source of phosphorus pollution. In fact, just one pound of phosphorus can produce hundreds of pounds of algae under favorable conditions.
Why Ditches Matter
In rural and lakeside communities, roadside ditches often function as direct pathways to local waterways. Raking leaves into ditches may seem convenient, but these areas quickly transport nutrient-laden runoff during rain events and snowmelt.
Similarly, dumping leaves along shorelines or directly into the lake may seem harmless because leaves are natural. However, concentrated piles of yard waste decompose rapidly and release excessive nutrients that disrupt the lake's natural balance.
The message is simple:
Leaves belong in compost systems, collection programs, or your lawn—not in the lake, ditches, streets, or storm drains.
What You Can Do
Mulch Leaves into Your Lawn - One of the easiest and most environmentally friendly options is to mow over fallen leaves. Mulched leaves break down quickly, returning nutrients to your lawn without contributing to runoff.
Keep Leaves Out of Streets and Storm Drains - Sweep or rake leaves away from roadways, gutters, and storm drain openings. Preventing leaves from entering the stormwater system helps stop phosphorus before it reaches the lake.
Compost Your Leaves - Leaves make an excellent addition to compost piles. Composting keeps nutrients on your property and creates a valuable soil amendment for gardens and landscaping.
Use Local Collection Programs - Residents in the City of Clintonville can take advantage of seasonal leaf collection services.
Clintonville Fall Leaf Collection
Typically runs from mid-October through the Friday before Thanksgiving.
Place unbagged leaves at the curb.
Keep leaf piles clear of sidewalks.
Remove twigs and branches from leaf piles.
Do not place leaves in plastic garbage bags for collection.
Visit the City of Clintonville Public Works website for current collection schedules and guidelines.
Residents of Larrabee
Larrabee does not offer municipal leaf collection, however leaves can be taken to the CAWS compost site for proper disposal.
Every Property Owner Can Help
Protecting Pigeon Lake isn't just about what happens at the shoreline. Nutrients entering the lake often start far from the water's edge. By properly managing leaves, homeowners can reduce phosphorus runoff, improve water quality, and help prevent future algae blooms.
This fall, take a few extra minutes to mulch, compost, or properly dispose of leaves. Those simple actions help keep nutrients out of Pigeon Lake and preserve the clean, healthy waters that make our district such a special place.
Remember:
Leaves off the street, out of ditches, and away from the lake means less phosphorus, less algae, and a healthier Pigeon Lake for everyone.
