Cape's leaf pickup program begins today

We love the autumn season. The colorful leaves make for beautiful walks and drives as the changing temps provide a briskness not found in any other season. But they don't call it fall for nothing. If there is a downfall to this time of year it is the work that those leaves cause once they fall from our trees and land all over our yards. The good news is that leaf collection has reached a new phase in Cape.

Phase One of the City of Cape's leaf collection involved the automated leaf truck traveling the city on unscheduled routes picking up leaves that were raked to the curb.

During Phase Two, from today through Dec. 19, the truck will travel designated routes to collect those leaves. This will occur once only, so if you want your leaves whisked away, it is imperative that you have them raked and at the curb before the start date for your residence. Find the dates for your specific routes at the city of Cape Girardeau website.

Phase Three will begin when Phase Two ends and will last until March 25. During this time, the truck will mirror Phase One. Leaves may be picked up from your residence multiple times.

The City asks that residents keep leaves "no more than 3 feet from street or between the street and sidewalk" and refrain from raking them to areas designated for parking, in the street, near hydrants, mailboxes, street signs or water meter lids. They also caution not to include twigs and limbs; they are only collecting leaves.

This is a practical, valuable service that is not offered in a lot of places. The city makes it easy to dispose of your leaves. If you haven't already done so, find out when the trucks will pass through your neighborhood. Happy raking, everyone.