Q3 Newsletter 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

Welcome to the Fall edition newsletter!

As the temperatures cool and the leaves begin to turn, it’s the perfect time to focus on the great outdoors. In this edition, we’ll cover important topics to help you make the most of the season, from managing yard waste and enjoying outdoor fires safely, to caring for your trees and taking advantage of the MSD Raingarden Grants to improve your property.

Whether you’re tackling fall projects or simply soaking in the beauty of the season, there are plenty of tips and resources to help you enjoy everything this time of year has to offer in Crestwood. Let’s go!

As a reminder, I will continue to add more posts to the website, as events occur and information is available. So be sure to visit mayorshipley.org, or better yet, subscribe to receive weekly/ monthly updates via e-mail.

Click on the topics below to view each article.

Many Crestwood residents have noticed changes in the health of their trees, particularly the appearance of oak galls and the increasing number of trees in decline. Angie Weber, a Crestwood resident and ecological landscape consultant, and Mark Grueber, a community forester with the Missouri Department of Conservation, provide valuable insights and advice on how residents can help protect their trees.

Oak Galls: Aesthetic Concern, Not a Serious Threat

Oak galls, abnormal growths found on oak trees, may appear concerning, but they are usually not a significant threat to tree health. As Weber explains, “Galls are usually harmless if a tree is in overall good health. A mature tree with underlying issues, such as disease or drought stress, could be negatively impacted, but this is the exception rather than the norm.”

These galls are caused by tiny, non-stinging wasps that induce abnormal plant growth to form protective homes for their larvae. While unsightly, galls rarely cause serious damage to healthy trees. Mark Grueber echoes this, stating, “These galls and the various oak species that are affected by them have co-evolved for a long time. In my 38 years of working as a forester in and around the St. Louis area, I've seen one tree that I would say was 'killed by galls' – and that was a very small tree with a very heavy infestation.”

Both experts emphasize that proper tree care is the best way to manage galls. Removing trees with horned oak gall (HOG) is not recommended, and chemical treatments have not proven effective. “Removing every tree with HOG is not an effective 'management strategy,'” says Grueber. “Instead, using growth regulators to discourage the female wasp from laying eggs on new growth can be effective in reducing new gall attacks.”

Why Are So Many Trees Dying?

While oak galls are usually not the primary cause of tree decline, Crestwood’s trees face other more significant stressors. Angie Weber points to several factors, including drought stress and the aging tree population, as major contributors to tree decline.


Signs of drought stress on trees

Grueber elaborates, “Most of these oaks are stressed from the reasons Angie listed, which are the primary stressors. Additionally, most of the oaks in Crestwood were planted in the 1950's and 1960's and are reaching maturity at the same time. When this happens, opportunists such as oak borer, obscure scale, hypoxylon canker, and armillaria root rot will hasten the decline. Sure, horned oak gall is an additional stressor, but these other issues are much greater threats to tree vitality.”

The Importance of Proper Tree Care and Maintenance

Weber and Grueber agree that consistent care is key to preserving trees in Crestwood. Beyond regular watering, pruning, and mulching. The Missouri Botanical Garden recommends cleaning up infested fallen branches and leaves to prevent pests from overwintering and reinfesting trees. That said, Angie Weber wants to emphasize that leaving uninfested branches and trees has other benefits, such as allowing productive insects overwinter - "Many insects lay eggs on leaves and overwinter in stems so it's encouraged for people to leave them in their yard in some capacity."

The Value of Mature Trees

Mature trees, especially oaks, play a crucial role in Crestwood’s ecosystem and community. As Weber points out, oak trees support over 900 species of Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), which are a critical food source for songbirds. “For example, raising a single brood of chickadees requires between 6,000 to 9,000 caterpillars, many of which depend on oak trees,” Weber explains.


Tree lined street in Crestwood

In addition to their ecological value, mature trees provide significant environmental and economic benefits. They absorb stormwater, filter air pollution, reduce heat in urban areas, and increase property values. Weber emphasizes, “The benefits of mature trees far outweigh the costs of maintaining them, and communities should invest in their care and preservation.”

What Can Crestwood Residents Do?

To help protect the trees in Crestwood, Weber and Grueber recommend the following actions for homeowners:

  • Water during dry spells: Ensure trees receive about 1 inch of water per week, especially during drought conditions.
  • Prune and clean up: Remove and destroy infested branches and fallen leaves to prevent pest spread.
  • Mulch properly: Apply mulch around the base of trees to retain moisture and protect roots.
  • Reduce new growth: Growth regulators can help discourage wasps from laying eggs on new branches, reducing gall infestations.
  • Protect from mechanical damage: Avoid damaging tree trunks with lawn equipment like mowers or string trimmers.

By following these practices, residents can help ensure that Crestwood’s valuable trees remain healthy and resilient, providing environmental and aesthetic benefits for generations to come.

Big Thanks to Angie and Mark for their expert advice!

  • Angie Weber, Owner & Ecological Landscape Consultant EcoLandscaping STL LLC (and Crestwood Resident)
  • Mark Grueber, Community Forester, Missouri Department of Conservation

As we move into fall, I reached out to Crestwood's Fire Chief to get his thoughts on fire pit safety and the rules around burning yard waste. Many of us enjoy spending cool evenings around a cozy fire pit, but it’s important to remember that safety and consideration for others should come first. Here’s a quick guide to help you enjoy the season responsibly while adhering to local regulations.

Fire Pit Use in Crestwood

  • What you can burn: Only clean, dry, split, and seasoned firewood is allowed. Burning trash, treated wood, plastics, rubber, or construction waste is illegal.
  • Size of your fire: Recreational fires should not exceed a cumulative base area of nine (9) square feet (approximately three feet by three feet).
  • Location: Fire pits should be at least 25 feet away from any structure or combustible material. Portable outdoor fireplaces must not be operated within 15 feet of any structure.
  • Permits: While permanent or portable fire pits do not require a permit, larger bonfires or specialized burns may need one. Always check with the Crestwood Fire Department for approval.

Yard Waste Burning is Not Permitted

While it's tempting to burn yard waste during fall clean-ups, please note that burning leaves, brush, or tree trimmings is not permitted within Crestwood city limits. As our community doesn’t have properties larger than three acres or river borders where exceptions might apply, these rules are in place to ensure the safety and air quality for all of us.

Be Considerate of Your Neighbors

Fire pits can be a great way to enjoy the season, but keep in mind that smoke from your fire can travel beyond your property. St. Louis County rules state that fires must not cause smoke, ash, or particulate matter to linger in the air or settle on surfaces outside your yard. Excessive smoke or odors can be a nuisance and may affect your neighbors' health.

Before you light a fire, check the air quality at iqair.com to ensure conditions are safe for burning.

Fire Safety Tips

  • Always have a fire extinguisher or garden hose nearby.
  • Never leave a fire unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area.
  • Avoid using accelerants like gasoline or lighter fluid to start your fire.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the warmth of a fire pit while keeping our community safe and clean. Let’s all do our part to maintain the wonderful atmosphere of Crestwood this fall.

If you're looking for a way to transform your yard while also making a positive impact on the environment, the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District (MSD) Rainscaping Small Grants Program is the perfect opportunity. This program offers Crestwood residents up to $3,000 in reimbursement for creating sustainable landscape features that help manage stormwater and enhance the beauty of your property.

Why Participate?

Imagine turning that soggy spot in your yard into a beautiful rain garden, filled with native plants that attract butterflies and birds while reducing the risk of basement backups and yard flooding. Or perhaps you're interested in replacing sections of your lawn with permeable pavers or a rain barrel system that not only looks great but also helps conserve water. With MSD's Rainscaping Small Grants Program, you can do all of this with the potential for significant financial support.

What is Rainscaping?

Rainscaping is the practice of using landscape features to control stormwater runoff, giving rainwater a chance to soak into the ground rather than overwhelming the sewer system. By incorporating rain gardens, permeable pavers, or rain barrels, you can reduce water pooling, improve your home's drainage, and help prevent sewer overflows in our region—all while boosting the curb appeal of your property.

How the Grant Works

Residents of Crestwood are eligible for up to $3,000 in reimbursement for approved rainscaping projects. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or prefer to work with a contractor, the program supports a variety of sustainable landscape features. Eligible projects must replace lawn grass, bare ground, invasive species, or pavement, and they must cover at least 100 square feet. You can find more information on MSD's website (HERE).

Types of Rainscaping Projects

  • Rain Gardens: Create a lush, self-sustaining garden that filters rainwater and provides habitat for pollinators. Rain gardens are ideal for areas that tend to collect water.
  • Permeable Pavers: Replace traditional hard surfaces like driveways or patios with permeable pavers, which allow rainwater to soak into the ground and reduce runoff.
  • Rain Barrels: Capture rainwater from your gutters and store it for future use in watering your garden, helping to conserve water during dry periods.
  • Lawn Alternatives: Ditch the high-maintenance grass and replace it with native plants, shrubs, and trees that are better suited to our climate, require less water, and provide habitat for wildlife.

Why Now?

There’s no set deadline to apply for the MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program, so you can start your project when it works best for you—whether you’re planning for a spring installation or aiming for fall. But with limited grants available each year, it's a good idea to apply early to secure your funding. There will be a virtual orientation to the MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program on Thursday, November 14, 2024 from 3:00-4:30 PM. Click HERE to register by November 8, 2024.

This is a rare chance to enhance your property while contributing to a healthier environment for all of us. And with MSD providing financial support, it’s never been easier to make a difference—both for your home and for the community.

For more information, including how to apply and tips for getting started, visit the MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program page or attend one of the live or recorded orientation sessions to ensure your project gets off to the right start. Get ready to make your property more beautiful, functional, and sustainable with help from the MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program!

The Missouri Botanical Garden Offers Expert Guidance

The MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program not only provides financial support but also offers incredible resources through a partnership with the Missouri Botanical Garden, ensuring you have expert guidance at every step of your project. This collaboration is designed to help residents succeed with their rainscaping projects, making it even easier to create beautiful, functional, and eco-friendly landscapes.

Expert Help at Your Fingertips

The Missouri Botanical Garden offers a wide array of tools and resources, from selecting the right plants to maintaining your new rain garden. Whether you're unsure which plants are best for your soil type or need help designing your project, their experts are here to guide you through the process. Here’s how they can help:

  • Plant Selection Resources: Use the Missouri Botanical Garden’s Plant Finder tool to discover plants that will thrive in your specific site conditions.
  • Native Landscaping Guides: The Shaw Nature Reserve Native Landscaping Manual offers detailed advice on rain gardening, stormwater management, and landscaping with native plants.
  • Soil Testing and Percolation: The Kemper Center for Home Gardening provides guidance on soil testing and percolation testing to ensure proper drainage for your rain garden.

Resources for Every Step

  • Composting Guides: Learn how to create nutrient-rich compost from yard waste with step-by-step guides from the University of Missouri Extension and the Kemper Center for Home Gardening.
  • Maintenance Tips: Ongoing maintenance is key, and the MSD Rainscaping Maintenance Schedule offers tips and guidance to keep your project thriving.
  • Local Contractors and Plant Sources: The Missouri Botanical Garden provides a list of trusted contractors and native plant nurseries to help you complete your project successfully.

Sample Root System Chart from a Crestwood Rainscaping Project

Make It a Community Effort

You won’t be alone on your rainscaping journey. Many Crestwood residents have already taken advantage of this program, transforming their properties into eco-friendly spaces that manage stormwater effectively and look stunning year-round. With support from the Missouri Botanical Garden’s experts and resources, your project is bound to be a success.

Now’s the perfect time to apply for the MSD Rainscaping Small Grants Program. Not only can you improve your property, but you’ll also be doing your part to protect our local waterways. Whether you want to reduce water pooling in your yard, create a beautiful rain garden, or install a rain barrel, the experts at the Missouri Botanical Garden have the tools and knowledge to help you achieve your goals.

For more information, including plant selection and design tools, visit the Missouri Botanical Garden website or explore their interactive guides. Your property will thank you, and so will our environment!

Let’s transform our community one yard at a time!

Just another reminder to mark your calendars for the upcoming Paper Shred Event on Saturday, October 12, 2024!

If you’ve been meaning to clear out those old file cabinets or boxes of bank statements, now is the time. The event will take place from 9:00 AM until Noon in the parking lot of the Crestwood Government Center (1 Detjen Drive).

Paper and CDs will be shredded on-site as they’re loaded into the truck. Please remember that binders, plastic bags, and cardboard boxes will not be accepted, but we’ll happily empty your boxes and hand them back to you.

We’ve scheduled more trucks this year, but the event will end if the trucks fill up, so I recommend arriving early. Crestwood is proud to offer this event free of charge once again, thanks to a grant from the St. Louis County Department of Health.

See you there!

During the past few weeks, Waste Connections has been delivering new carts to the parts of Crestwood that didn't get them last March. So, it seems like a good time to share an article that I posted way back in January, which outlines all of the details about this new chapter in our waste management service. Who knew there was so much to know about trash, but there have been lots of questions along the way, so hopefully this helps to answer them.

Here's that reprint from January...

Let’s Talk Trash!

March 1 will be here soon and new procedures for our trash service will take effect. Many residents have asked me about this and unfortunately there is some confusion about the details. So, let’s cover everything…

Disclaimer - Everything in this article is my understanding based on the contract the city has with Waste Connections (read a copy HERE) and a few clarifications they recently provided to me. If something is incorrect, it doesn't override the contract or Waste Connections policies. With that in mind - Let’s dig in…

Background Info

Since the Waste Connections contract with Crestwood will expire in March 2024, the city began evaluating options back in June of 2023.

In recent years, various external factors such as labor shortages, escalating fuel prices, dump locations, dump fees, and environmental considerations have significantly impacted community solid waste programs across the St. Louis area.

The average rate among 17 local municipalities stands at $28.73 per month. Municipalities that recently renewed or signed new vendors (shown in red below) have seen significantly higher rates.

Additional study indicated that starting with a new vendor and new contract would surely result in a significant price increase for Crestwood, along with the disruption and hassle for residents. The resulting contract amendment ultimately saves every household at least $20-30 per month ($240-$360 every year) and the new model should result in fewer missed pickups or delays.

Here's what’s new:

Billing

  • A modest $1 increase totaling $21.78 per month (today’s rate is $20.78 per month).
  • Continued small annual increases for the next four years ($22.87, $24.01, $25.21, and $26.47 per month). Even 5-years from now, our monthly rate will be lower than today's regional average rate.

Trash Service

  • Trash collection will transition to the automated “arm” system like we’ve been using for recycling.
  • Waste Connections will provide each resident with a free 96-gallon trash cart. Additional carts can be rented at $8 per month.
  • If your family needs multiple carts, you will still be saving money compared to the rates other cities have received (which would have resulted in an extra $20-$30 per month for everyone).

Recycle

  • Most of us have been using the 64-gallon recycle bin provided from Crestwood years ago. This will continue to be the container of choice.
  • Additional carts can be rented for $8/month per cart.
  • Recycle tubs / bins will no longer be allowed. If you don't have a recycle cart, you can call Waste Connections at 636-321-2100 and they will arrange to deliver one.

Yard Waste

  • Yard Waste collection will also transition to the automated “arm” system.
  • Waste Connections will provide each resident with another free 96-gallon trash cart for yard waste. Just like trash service - additional carts can be rented at $8 per month.
  • Specifically for yard waste - you can also use your own 64-gallon or 96-gallon cart(s) for no additional fee, but they must be compatible with the “arm” system (strong enough not to collapse when squeezed). Just to reiterate - you can only use your own (compatible) carts for yard waste - you need to use their carts for trash and recycle.
  • An example of a compatible cart is the Toter brand, sold at Home Depot.
  • In addition to using carts, you can also place up to 5 biodegradable yard waste bags per week. If you have more than 5 bags, you’ll need to contact Waste Connections and pay $5 per each extra bag for them to be collected.

Bulk Pickup

  • Collection of all bulky items must be scheduled by calling Waste Connections and there is a $21.87 charge.
  • There are restrictions on what they will pick up, so be sure to discuss that when you call.
  • Residents are limited to two (2) bulky items per service request.

A Note About Carts

  • Waste Connections will provide us all with two 96-gallon carts (one for trash, one for yard waste). If you would prefer the smaller 64-gallon carts, you will be able to notify them soon after delivery, and they will swap them out.
  • Trash and Recycle items need to fit within the cart, with the lid closed. If you OCASSIONALLY have a larger item that won’t fit in the cart (e.g. old curtain rod or an oddly shaped item), then you can place that next to the cart. If this becomes more of a habit, then Waste Connections may stop collecting them. So, try to get everything in the cart.
  • Yard Waste also needs to fit inside the cart (or within the allowable bags) but if you OCCASIONALLY need to place bundles of branches/etc next to the can, they will collect it.
  • If you have trash cans that aren’t compatible, you can use them for other purposes, sell them or give them away, or label them “Take this can” and place on the curb for collection.
  • If you have been renting a cart from Waste Connections, you can either continue renting it as an additional cart or call Waste Connections at 636-321-2100 to tell them you no longer want it (that stops the rental and they will arrange pickup).
  • Weight Limit – the Waste Connections flyer indicates the weight limit for the contents of the can is 60 pounds. I’m told this is a guideline and the trucks won’t be weighing your trash. The issue they have found is if the cart is overly heavy (e.g. 100+ pounds of stuff inside) it can break. So, if you’re your cart seems really heavy, then it’s probably too much – otherwise I bet it will be okay.

Big Leaf Weekends

  • It’s no secret – there are a few weekends each year when most of the leaves fall and when most of us put them to the curb. There are some yards that are larger and have lots of leaves.
  • A few facts – a yard waste bag is typically 30 gallons, but only holds about 23 gallons when filled to the “fill here” line. So, a 96-gallon cart plus 5-bags is roughly the equivalent of 9 bags per week.
  • I drove throughout Crestwood many times during those busy “leaf weekends” and while there were some homes that had the big line-up of bags, the new limits should work for nearly everyone. I know I know – not for you. So – here are your options.
  • Mulch the leaves first – this is the single biggest step to minimizing the volume you place at the curb. If you run your mower around (without bagging) just once, and then rake or bag – you’ll be amazed how compact those leaves get.
  • More carts – If you simply have too much, then get more carts. You can rent them for $8/month for the months when you need them. Of course, you can also use your own cart ($0/month) if they are compatible.
  • Repurpose a cart – You can put a big “X” with black tape on any of your other compatible carts and use them for yard waste.
  • Stage your bags – This is not ideal, but of course you can parcel out bags each week to stay within the limit.
  • I’m sure that for some people, that still doesn’t work. But I know of one resident that has a 1/2 acre yard with about 40 mature oak trees and he already makes this work with mulching and multiple carts (no bags).
  • This topic was discussed VERY MUCH by the Board of Alderman. In the end, the new contract will have save every resident $240 - $360 per year over other options and addresses the needs of the vast majority of residents every week of the year. You can rent a bunch of extra carts for a few months and still come out ahead.

What Isn’t Changing

While the method of "how" trash is picked up is changing, there are also things that won't change. For example, the discounted programs for seniors and low-income residents will remain.

Low-Income Discount Requirements - 60 years of age or older or disabled AND with a taxable income not exceeding 80% of area median income as it appears on the recent IRS Form 1040 or 1040A or 1040EZ. Qualified residents will receive a 72.5% discount.

Senior Discount Requirements – Households with at least one resident 65 years or older as of the beginning of the quarter of the current year, January 1, April 1, July 1, or October 1. Qualified residents will receive a 10% discount.

Disabled Pickup – For residents not capable of placing containers at the curbside because of physical disability, Waste Connections can access trash carts placed next to a resident’s home. No additional charge for this service.

What Is and Isn’t Accepted - When we received the flyer from Waste Connections in the mail, some of the “Not Acceptable In Your Trash” items were a surprise to many. Specifically, it states that we can’t toss batteries into any of the carts. What??

I spoke with Waste Connections and St. Louis County and the bottom line is that the flyer is incorrect and we CAN toss our disposable batteries into the trash (Alkaline AA, AAA, C, D, 9-volt). However – rechargeable batteries, button batteries, and car batteries are still a no no since they contain hazardous materials. There are other places to dispose of these (e.g. Home Depot) – so check out the St. Louis County Recycle Wizard website.

Still Have Questions?

Read the Waste Connection Flyer – it’s actually a pretty good document that explains what you can and can’t recycle, holiday schedule, cart placement, cart sizes and dimensions, dos and don’ts about placing trash in the cart, etc. You can read it HERE.

Contact Waste Connections directly at 636-321-2100.

Contact Crestwood Public Works at 314-729-4720.

If you still can’t get an answer, you can also contact me (contact info HERE)

Previous Communications on this Topic

If you missed any of the previous newsletters, you can find a link to all of them here.

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