Dumping yard waste over a bluff, into a lake or stream, or into the marine water for the tide to take away was once a common practice. Today we know that leaves and grass clippings dumped into these areas can cause algal blooms and reduce oxygen levels in the water. The recommended option for disposing of leaves, grass clippings and other yard waste is to compost them at home or use a yard debris collection service, which may be offered by your local solid waste collector. Your WSU Extension or local Conservation District offices are good sources of information on home composting. For more information visit: gardening.wsu.edu/compost-and-mulch.