Residents asked not to dispose of lawn debris in ditches

The Flathead County Road and Bridge Department issued an advisory this week asking area residents not to dispose of grass clippings, leaves, shrubs and other lawn debris on county right of way such as road ditches and barrow pits.

Lawn debris left in ditches can block culverts and affect drainage, according to Road and Bridge Supervisor Ovila Byrd. It can also increase maintenance costs for the county and even damage the road base.

“We have to clean those ditches for proper draining,” Byrd said, adding that debris dumping in the Helena Flats area is a particular trouble spot for county road crews.

“It’s quite the hassle,” Byrd said. “Neighbors complain about it, too. It’s unslightly.”

For questions about the proper disposal of lawn or tree waste, call the Road Department at 758-4790.