Concerns were raised a the May 12th Jackson Township meeting regarding the Townships decision to cease accepting grass clippings at the Yard Waste Transfer Facility, located on Kierych Drive.

Recycling Coordinator Patricia Wood explained that the money involved in disposal was extremely costly and the market was limited. "A major effort is being made by the NJDEP to encourage and enforce Grasscycling," stated Mrs. Wood. "The benefits, when properly done, are numerous."

When grasscycling is done properly, clippings settle quickly between the growing blades of grass where they shelter the roots from the sun, conserving moisture. As they break down, they release more moisture and nutrients into the soil. This means the grass will need to be watered less frequently, conserving more energy and water. Clippings left on the lawn supply one third or more of the nitrogen needed to keep your grass healthy.

In his effort to continue with the reuse, reduce and recycle commitment, the Mayor has asked the Council to help him assist residents with the phasing out of dumping grass clippings. Mayor Reina has appropriated fundsfrom a Recycling trust fund, to permit residents to dispose of limited amounts of grass clipping through December 2009. Reina stated "Once this phase out is complete, we will not be accepting anymore grass clippings at the Yard Waste Facility". I am asking that residents work together with the Township by learning the different ways to mulch and compost.  We plan on assisting everyone in everyway possible. There had to be a reason why all surrounding Ocean County communities stopped accepting grass clippings some time ago, and now we are just finding out that the "County facility"
stopped accepting them as well stated Reina. The DEP, a state agency has issued concerns and has restrictions that Jackson has to comply with like them or not.

 Jackson residents may dispose of grass clippings in the following manner. Entrants must show proof of Jackson residency and your license plate will be recorded. Each resident will be permitted to dump once a week in one of the following methods: Up to a maximum of Three (3) 30 gallon lawn bags of clippings or Three (3) 30 gallon garbage cans full. NO loose clippings in the back of Pickup trucks or trailers will be permitted. Absolutely no contractors or any type of commercial vehicle (plates or signage) will be permitted entry into the site.

Residents also have the option of delivering large amounts of grass clippings to the Ocean County Landfill, located on Route 70 in Manchester for a fee of $5.00 per 100 pounds.

Fur further information, please call 732-928-1311.