Leave the Leaves Initiative Returns

DAVIDSON, NC– The Town of Davidson and the Davidson Lands Conservancy are embracing a "Leave the Leaves" initiative this fall and encourage residents and community members to join this voluntary effort by taking the "Leave the Leaves" pledge. Those who pledge to leave their leaves are committing to practicing sustainable leaf management to promote soil health, enrich plants with essential nutrients, and provide crucial habitat for wildlife. This sustainable leaf management initiative aligns with the Town’s Climate Action Plan Resource Conservation goal to advance sustainable waste management practices in Davidson.

Davidson residents who take the pledge between October 1 and November 30, 2025, will receive a custom "Leave the Leaves" garden flag while supplies last. Davidson residents who participated previously are encouraged to display the flags they received previously and renew their pledge to help the Town track participation toward Climate Action Plan goals.

While yard space and HOA regulations may limit residents' ability to leave leaves where they fall, there are alternative sustainable practices that can be considered. Community members are encouraged to:

• Leave the leaves where they fall in natural areas. This is the best choice for the local ecosystem as it allows nature to do what it was designed to do.
• Rake leaves and use them as mulch for flower and garden beds. Moving leaves into natural areas in your yard provides critical cover for pollinators and improves soil health.
• Collect leaves and add them to your at-home compost pile.
• Mow the leaves into the lawn. This option may be best if the rules of your neighborhood do not allow full leaves to remain in the yard.
• If you cannot leave your leaves in your yard, or have too many leaves, community members are encouraged to use paper bags for leaf collection.
  

“We are excited to continue our partnership with Davidson Lands Conservancy to encourage simple actions to support sustainable leaf management in our community,” says Town Arborist Andrew Sileo. “Leaving the leaves where they fall in natural areas or mulching them into garden beds provides an overwintering habitat for pollinators and enriches soil health which benefits the entire ecosystem.”

Responsible leaf management is crucial to maintaining the integrity of our stormwater system. Leaves should be kept clear of storm drains, sidewalks, and streets. Keeping these areas clear aids in the prevention of blockages and flooding, while contributing to the safety of our cyclists and motorists.

To learn more about the Town's "Leave the Leaves" initiative and to make the pledge starting on Wednesday, October 1, visit www.townofdavidson.org/leavetheleaves.

For questions and additional information, please contact the Davidson Parks and Recreation Department via email at DPR@townofdavidson.org or by calling 704-892-3349.