Glacier Country News

The City of Missoula's Street Maintenance & Operations Division will commence its annual leaf collection program on November 5, with plans to conclude by November 29. The initial focus will be on neighborhoods north of the Clark Fork River. Residents can check the Leaf Collection map online to find out when crews are expected in their area.

The collection begins in older neighborhoods with mature trees, where leaf volume is highest. This approach allows crews to revisit these areas at the end of the season if weather conditions permit.

Residents who prefer not to wait for their scheduled pickup, miss their date, or have additional leaves after collection can take them to Garden City Compost without charge from November 5 through November 29. It is important to note that this service is exclusively for leaves; branches and other debris will incur regular charges.

City officials emphasize cooperation from residents to ensure a smooth process:

- Leaves should be placed out before the scheduled pickup week but no more than two or three days in advance.

- Leaves must be raked to the curb in the parking lane, avoiding bike and driving lanes.

- Ensure leaves do not block stormwater inlets, especially during rain or snow.

- Allow room for Streets Division equipment by parking appropriately.

- Only leaves should be included; debris and limbs delay pickup and may damage equipment.

Branches from previous storms should not be mixed with leaves; residents can call for separate pickup arrangements. Trees must be pruned to a minimum height over streets for effective collection.

Street sweepers will follow leaf collection as weather permits. In case of snowfall disrupting the schedule, crews will prioritize snow plowing but return to leaf collection promptly.