State officials are sounding the alarm for Minnesota families as the fall foliage season peaks. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) says leaves that collect in street gutters and storm drains can harm the drinking water that feeds the state’s famed lakes and rivers.

Why leaves matter for water quality

When leaves fall onto sidewalks, streets and other hard surfaces, rain washes them into municipal storm‑water systems. Once in lakes or streams, the leaf material releases nutrients that fuel algae blooms. As the algae decompose, they consume dissolved oxygen, leaving fish and native plants struggling to survive.

The MPCA explains that when whole neighborhoods dump large volumes of organic matter into a water body, the result can be a rapid decline in water quality, including lower oxygen levels and higher nutrient concentrations.

Survey shows a concerning trend

According to a recent MPCA survey, just under 45 percent of the lakes the agency examined failed to meet water‑quality standards because of excess nutrients, which officials link to leaf runoff. While the agency notes that leaf decomposition is beneficial for soil health, the same process can become a problem when it overwhelms aquatic ecosystems.

What homeowners can do

To help protect Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” the MPCA recommends a few simple steps:

• Rake leaves away from street gutters. Removing leaf piles from the curb reduces the amount that can be swept into storm drains during rainstorms.
• Compost leaves. Minnesota law prohibits tossing yard waste, including leaves, in regular garbage. Residents can either compost leaves at home or take them to a municipal composting site.
• Use leaf bags or mulching. If you have a garden, shredded leaves make excellent mulch, returning nutrients to the soil without risking water contamination.

By taking these actions, homeowners not only keep their properties tidy but also play a direct role in preserving the clean water that supports recreation, wildlife and drinking supplies across the state.

Enjoy the season responsibly

Minnesota’s fall colors—vivid reds from maples, deep burgundies from oaks and sumacs, and golden hues from hickories—continue to draw residents outdoors. While admiring the scenery, a little extra effort to manage leaf debris can make a big difference for the state’s water resources.

The MPCA will continue monitoring water‑quality indicators throughout the season and encourages citizens to stay informed about local water‑management initiatives. For more guidance, visit the agency’s website or contact your city’s public‑works department.

Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.