Whitpain's EAC says leaving autumn leaves fall as they may can help the ecosystem

Fall can be a wonderful time of festivals, crisp cool mornings, and hot cider. But there is an aspect of autumn that most homeowners are less than thrilled about each year: the leaves.
Raking can be a back-aching pain, and it seems that the chore will never end, as area trees continue to release their leaf coverage for months. But, the Whitpain Township Environmental Advisory Council (EAC) has good news for you. Leave the leaves.

In a recent edition of Whitpain Wire, the township’s informative newsletter, the EAC recommends giving yourself a break. Your yard will thank you.

“Leaves create a natural mulch that helps to suppress weeds while fertilizing the soil as it breaks down,” said the EAC’s newsletter recommendation. “As the leaves break down, they add organic matter back into the soil, which lessens the need for fertilizer. Leave them in your grass or move them to your garden and flower beds.”

The leaves can also create a habitat for the creatures and critters of the area.

“Another reason for leaving the leaves is that it benefits many wildlife species, including salamanders, wood frogs, box turtles, earthworms, and millipedes,” said the organization’s advice. “Additionally, thousands of insect species rely on the leaf layer to burrow for the winter. Did you know that lightning bugs lay their eggs in leaf litter? Moth and butterfly caterpillars also overwinter in fallen leaves before emerging in the spring.”

There will be a talk, today, Oct. 17, at 3 p.m., for those interested in learning more on the topic. Kathy Salisbury, from the Arboretum at Temple University’s Ambler Campus will be holding a virtual Temple Talk. There is no cost to attend, and interested parties can register online here.

If you hope to learn more about smart ways to be environmentally friendly, the Whitpain EAC isn’t stopping at leaves. Later this month, they will also discuss water conservation and sensible use tips with the area’s utility supplier.

There will be a Pennsylvania American Water Company tour on Oct. 23 from 3 to 4 p.m. in order to learn more about water treatment and becoming “Water Wise.” The event will be hosted with the EAC at 300 W. Washington St., in Norristown.

“This is an opportunity to see firsthand how we ensure the clean and safe water for our community,” said the event’s website. “Don’t miss out on being able to create a more sustainable Whitpain.”

Attendees must wear closed-toe shoes and provide a photo identification in order to participate in the tour. Safety glasses are provided, and those ages 9 and over are welcome.

For more information on the Whitpain EAC’s events or advice, contact the organization via email at WhitpainEAC@gmail.com or visit its website here. Meetings for the Whitpain EAC are held at 5:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month at the township building, 960 Wentz Road in Blue Bell.