Compost
Home composting is an easy way to turn organic waste into a rich soil amendment. All you need is a compost bin and a pitch fork, which you can find at most lawn and garden stores. Contact your city about rules and restrictions.
More information on backyard composting | City Hall
Compostable Yard Waste Bags
A new State law regarding yard waste bags went into effect January 1, 2010. If you bring your yard waste to one of Ramsey County’s free collection sites, nothing has changed - bags of yard waste must be emptied on site and taken home. If your yard waste is picked up by a hauler or recycler, state law now says you must use a reusable container or special bag that can be composted. Plastic bags are not considered reusable containers and are banned.
Yard Waste Collection Sites | Compostable Yard Waste Bags | Yard Waste Bag Requirements 
Emerald Ash Borer
Due to the Emerald Ash Borer quarantine, Ramsey County residents cannot transport ash trees, including ash limbs, branches, logs and untreated ash lumber with the bark attached, outside of Ramsey and Hennepin counties. This quarantine also applies to firewood of any hardwood species. Residents should bring ash tree debris to the Midway yard waste site.
The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) was discovered in St. Paul in 2009. EAB is an insect that destroys green, black and white ash trees by interrupting the water and nutrition carrying capacity of the tree.
For more information on Emerald Ash Borer | Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA) Video | Arrest the Pest hotline - 651.201.6684
Master Gardeners
Looking for expert advice on home composting, yard waste reduction, and environmentally-friendly yard care? Master Gardeners host "Question & Answer Booths" at the Ramsey County yard waste sites. For more information on Master Gardeners | Question and Answer Booth Schedule (pdf) | 651.704.2071
Rain Barrels
An 80 gallon barrel emptied regularly can capture 3,275 gallons of water per year from one side of a house. Use the rainwater for watering flowers, grass and vegetables. Several local stores now carry rain barrels or you can make one yourself for less than $50.
More information on rain barrels: Ramsey/Washington Metro Watershed District | assemble a rain barrel | keeping mosquitoes out of rain barrels
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