Why Raking Leaves In Michigan Might Not Be The Best Idea This Fall

If you live in Michigan and looking to keep a nice, leaf-free yard, you may want to put down that garden rake. That's because the Michigan Department of Natural Resources is encouraging its residents to skip raking and let the leaves fall where they may. In an Oct. 29 post on its website, the Michigan DNR lists many reasons to skip the arduous task of raking, bagging, and disposing of your leaves.

First and foremost, the leaves create their own ecosystem on the ground, as outlined by the National Wildlife Federation. They provide habitats for various creatures such as chipmunks, toads, box turtles, shrews, insects, and earthworms. Raking or blowing leaves disrupts their life cycles and eliminates beneficial insects. Left in place, the leaves eventually break down and enrich the soil.

Another consideration is the landfill space that refuse eventually occupies. An estimated eight million tons of leaves find their way to landfills every fall. Additionally, the DNR discourages people from burning their leaves. While the smell of a good fall fire might be appealing, burning leaves is harmful to the environment and poses a fire risk in dry areas.

So what should you do instead? Experts suggest that mowing the leaves is the easiest and best thing for your yard. By cutting your grass high and leaving the leaves to lie, you allow them to break down naturally. Whether you want to help the environment or simply want to mark something off the 'honey-do' list, you have the DNR's blessing to leave the leaves this fall.