Registration for the 2025 A Litter Bit Better Fall Cleanup is now open!

September 3, 2025 - ROCHESTER, MINN. - Registration is now open for the third annual A Litter Bit Better fall cleanup, continuing the effort to keep Rochester litter-free year-round. Litter collection in the fall helps prevent it from being trapped under the snow, reducing the amount of litter we see in the spring. We invite volunteers to join our trash collection event, which will run from October 4 to 12.

Just like in the spring, volunteers are encouraged to clean up individually or with groups such as their household, family, neighborhood or workplace. Litter collection can happen anytime during the week of October 4 to 12. Trash bags are provided; simply choose a location, pick a date and start cleaning! Visit A Litter Bit Better Registration - Rochester for details, maps, tips and more!

Along with participating in A Litter Bit Better, residents are asked to follow these best practices for waste disposal and recycling:

1. Prevent Litter at Home

   Securely place all trash in a plastic bag and tie it shut before disposal. Avoid overloading garbage and recycling containers, ensuring that the lids close completely. This helps prevent windblown trash from littering your neighborhood.

2. Recycle

   Discover what materials can be recycled through your curbside hauler or at the Olmsted County Recycling Center Plus. Ensure all items are clean, dry and empty before placing them loosely in your recycling cart.

3. Household Hazardous Waste

   The Olmsted County Hazardous Waste Facility, located at 305 Energy Parkway NE, Rochester, MN 55906, is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Disposal fees apply to certain hazardous materials, while others can be disposed of at no cost.

4. Trash to Treasure
   Several organizations in Rochester welcome donations of items that are still in good condition but no longer needed. Donating these items is an excellent way to keep them out of the waste stream and support sustainability.

Please be aware that this is a trash collection event; the City of Rochester does not offer a leaf pickup service. Yard waste, including leaves, can be dropped off for free at the Olmsted County compost site, 305 Energy Parkway NE, across from the recycling center.

Looking for another way to help? Residents can prevent harmful algal blooms by keeping storm drains clear of fallen leaves and yard waste through programs like Adopt-a-Drain. Every person who volunteers to pick up litter or clear storm drains has a meaningful impact, helping to keep our waters and natural spaces clean.