Grass Clipping Update

In response to a state law passed some time ago, Princeton Borough is no longer picking up grass clippings from the streets (http://www.princetonboro.org/public_works.cfm). Grass clippings clog drains and their nutrients can leach into local streams. The stormwater system underlying town streets feeds directly into streams, so dumping anything on the street is essentially the same as throwing it into the local brook.

Some homeowners hold to the belief that grass clippings left on the lawn cause thatch buildup, but the Mercer County Extension service does not recommend removing them. They are high in beneficial nutrients and decompose quickly. They can also be composted if mixed with other organic materials. Go to http://www.mgofmc.org/successfullawncare.html for more info.

Unfortunately, many homeowners, not having gotten any clear feedback from the borough, are still dumping grass clippings out on the streets, making ever larger piles. Maybe someday there will be a good feedback system developed so the policy is made clear to those who can't take a hint.