Cedar Rapids leaf vacuum program ends a week early

Snow and cold temperatures have forced Cedar Rapids' leaf vacuum program to end a week earlier than planned, officials said today.

Leaves may still be placed in the green YARDY cart for collection. Yard waste is collected throughout the year in the YARDY carts.

The Solid Waste & Recycling Division is also planning a spring leaf vacuum collection program, with dates to be announced.

Residents are asked not to set their remaining leaves out in kraft paper bags. These bags are only collected during the leaf collection program. Kraft bag collection is restricted because they can easily exceed the 40-pound weight limit and when the bags get wet, the bottom often falls out during collection. Residents are welcome to place their filled kraft bags in the YARDY cart for collection any time during the year.

As the snow begins to fall, the city's Solid Waste & Recycling Division reminds residents to place their containers at curb height throughout the winter. Placing the containers on top of snow banks creates a safety hazard for collection crews. Placing the containers in the driveway or next to the driveway on a section that has been cleared of snow will help our crews get through the winter safely.