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# Trash Talk ♻️ Fall Yard Waste?
- URL: https://pembrokecitizenjournal.com/community/trash-talk-fall-yard-waste/
- Published: 2026-10-02T12:00:46.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-02T12:00:46.000Z
- Description: Yard waste is not allowed in Pembroke's curbside trash or recycling. There are better ways to reuse the natural remains of autumn.
- Author: Nicole Lydic
- Tags: Community, Trash Talk

Autumn is upon us, and the trees have started shedding their leaves. Want an excuse not to rake this fall?

​One of the most sustainable gardening practices is leaving leaves to overwinter. This seemingly lazy trick provides a vital winter habitat for wildlife, especially pollinators. Decomposing leaves also enrich the soil. Leaves break down naturally during the winter and spring, replenishing key nutrients such as carbon and nitrogen.

![](https://cdn.synaps.media/pembrokenews/content/images/2026/10/DSC_7436-1.jpeg)

​Approximately 70% of native bees nest just below the soil surface, according to [UMass Amherst](https://www.umass.edu/agriculture-food-environment/sites/default/files/pdf-doc-ppt/beesofmass%5Fprint-ua.pdf); leaves provide protective, insulating nesting sites and food for overwintering species, including bees, butterfly caterpillars, and other beneficial insects. Allow perennial flowers to remain rather than trim the dying stems and seed heads. The seeds provide non-migratory birds essential fats and protein to survive the frigid season. The stems provide secure nesting areas for 30% of other bee species in Massachusetts and other pollinators.

![Goldfinch eating black-eyed susan seeds - photo credit Nicole Lydic](https://cdn.synaps.media/pembrokenews/content/images/2026/09/DSC_8734.jpeg)

Goldfinch eating black-eyed susan seeds - photo credit Nicole Lydic

​For a tidier yard, rake or blow the leaves and trimmings into garden beds, around trees and shrubs, or into discreet piles. Such piles can provide shelter and food for non-migratory birds throughout the winter months. Sow or save the seeds for spring blooms.

​Another way to preserve the benefits of yard trimmings, leaves, and grass clippings is to compost them with other organic waste, such as coffee grounds and banana peels. However, adding yard waste to the compost bin does not ensure pollinators will survive the winter. In fact, compost bins can reach temperatures that destroy eggs and cocoons. If possible, save the yard cleanup until spring. Once the daily temperature remains consistently above 50 degrees, in late spring, clear the remaining layers and move to the compost bin. This will help ensure hatchling survival.

![Backyard compost bins available through the South Shore Recycling Cooperative](https://cdn.synaps.media/pembrokenews/content/images/2026/09/Compost-Bins-2.png)

Backyard compost bins available through the South Shore Recycling Cooperative

​Residents of Pembroke who live in strict HOA communities may be required to maintain their lawns and gardens in a way that does not allow perceptibly sloppy landscaping. Some may not even be allowed compost bins. In this case, drop leaves and grass clippings off at the [Wilson E. Whittaker Recycling Center](https://www.pembroke-ma.gov/1935/%5FThe-Wilson-E-Whittaker-Recycling-Center) at 158B Hobomock St. (free permit required) on Saturdays between April 15 and December 15.

​Yard waste is not allowed in either the trash or recycling bin in Pembroke. [Massachusetts law](https://www.mass.gov/guides/massdep-waste-disposal-bans) bans landfills, recycling centers, transfer stations, and incinerators from accepting leaves, grass clippings, and other yard waste for regular disposal. Utilize this organic material in the garden or add it to Pembroke’s compost pile at the Wilson E. Whittaker Recycling Center. Compost from the center is free to residents as well; drop off clippings and pick up nutrient-rich compost at the same time.

​For more information about how to properly dispose of or recycle items in Pembroke, visit the Recycle Smart MA [Recyclopedia](https://recyclesmartma.org/results-materials/?gad%5Fsource=1&gad%5Fcampaignid=23993336323&gbraid=0AAAAAC84JUB30LvptDht25PFnkzOjbCyr&gclid=Cj0KCQjw5vLVBhCiARIsAD56SFKfQQyi6zRcb7G4N3RUgp3xN-VWxaecjXNZzAfU-oP8F4J4620nhCgaAl-sEALw%5FwcB).

​If you are interested in having a recycling or waste question answered in a future Trash Talk article, please email Nicole Lydic at [nicole.lydic@pembrokecitizenjournal.com](mailto:nicole.lydic@pembrokecitizenjournal.com)