Agenda - Environmental Policy Board - 11/01/2010

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Update on Yard Waste Drop -Off Site Research By: Chris Anderson, Environmental Coordinator CASE # 1 Background: At the last meeting, the Board began considering possible options for yard waste disposal for residents. Aside from some garbage haulers offering a yard waste pick -up service, the closest option currently for residents to dispose of yard waste is the Bunker Hills compost site in Coon Rapids. Observations: Staff has researched the possibility of utilizing SCORE (Select Committee On Recycling and the Environment) monies, which is how the recycling program is funded, to offset or cover the cost of a yard waste collection event. This funding is intended to assist municipalities with meeting the recycling tonnage goals, as established by Anoka County, annually. If a municipality achieves 108% or more of their goal, they are eligible to use the SCORE funding for other various materials, including yard waste. In 2009, Ramsey recycled 132% of the tonnage goal and thus, for 2010, was eligible to use available SCORE monies for yard waste. It is important to note though that this funding source, at least for use toward any type of yard waste management, is entirely dependent on the success of the recycling program Staff has also contacted District Energy in St. Paul to explore a possible partnership regarding woody debris. While Staff has not received a response yet, this may be a viable option for the • disposal of woody material, which District Energy using to heat the down town St. Paul district. Staff has inquired about their need for woody biomass, if a certain quantity of material would be required before they may accept it, and whether they may consider arranging for the grinding and transport of material if provided at no cost. As mentioned at the last meeting, Staff is supportive of the idea of a yard waste drop off option. Staff would still encourage residents to mulch their grass clippings rather than bagging them, but for tree debris (especially after storm events or the wind gusts experienced last week) and leaves (in the fall), some sort of drop off option for residents would likely be a well received alternative. However, how such a site would be funded, and more importantly, how it would be sustained long -term, is still unknown. As the Board continues researching this topic, Staff would consider offering a leaf collection event in 2011 (assuming Ramsey achieves 108% or more of its recycling goal). This could help gauge the possible demand/need for a yard waste drop off site in the community. EPB Action: Based on discussion. EPB: 11/1/10