Residents of Owatonna, mark your calendars: the city's compost site will close its gates for the season starting on November 22, prescribing a temporary halt to the community's yard waste disposal until further notice. Keeping Owatonna's environmental health top of mind, the site will cease to accept compostable materials until it reopens to contend with winter greens and the remnants of autumn maintenance.

Until that pause, locals can utilize the site for disposing of various forms of yard waste, with an adherence to Minnesota's ban on including such material in household garbage pickups. The availability and accessibility of this service echo Owatonna's environmental commitment, helping to shape a greener future for our community.

Here is the comprehensive pricing structure to keep in mind for disposing of yard waste:

• Brush and Branches: $8.00 per yard
• Christmas Trees: $5.00 each
• Garden Waste: $1.00 per bag or $6.00 per yard
• Sod Strips: Free
• Stumps: $50.00 each
• Trees (Over 12 Inches in Diameter): $15.00 each
• Wreaths: $0.50 each
• Yard Waste (Bags 33 Gallons or Less): $1.00 per bag
• Yard Waste (Bags 34 to 55 Gallons): $1.50 per bag
• Yard Waste (Bulk): $6.00 per yard

It's essential to stay informed about the future reopening dates for the compost site to ensure a seamless transition from autumn to winter yard upkeep. Stay connected with The Owatonna Observer for timely updates.

Remember, although the site's doors may be closing for the season, our responsibility toward environmental stewardship doesn't take a break. Let's continue to lead by example, keeping Owatonna's sustainability efforts thriving, one compostable item at a time.