Leaves collected during Grand Junction’s annual fall pickup are being reused to improve Watson Island, a public space along the Colorado River.
Through a collaborative effort between the City’s General Services and Parks and Recreation departments, a portion of the leaves collected this fall were used on Watson Island, with the remainder processed at the Mesa County Compost Facility. This approach improved efficiency, reduced costs, and delivered long-term environmental benefits.
In total, 5,470 cubic yards of leaves were redirected to the island, resulting in:
- $6,500 in savings on contract services and landfill fees.
- By using collected leaves for Watson Island, the City avoided purchasing the equivalent of approximately 1,300 cubic yards of compost, saving an estimated $44,000.
The compost will be used to improve soil health and restore native vegetation on Watson Island, helping support sustainable land management and a healthier riverfront environment. These improvements benefit a wide range of users, including walkers and disc golf players.
Watson Island’s ongoing restoration reflects decades of City investment that transformed the area from a former disposal site into a revitalized riverfront area.
By finding smarter ways to reuse materials and work across departments, the City is preserving taxpayer dollars, restoring native vegetation, and continuing to enhance the riverfront experience for the entire community.