Compost Site

Compost Facility Annual Access Program

New annual access fee beginning May 1, 2026

The City of St. Croix Falls operates a resident compost facility that allows residents to dispose of yard waste locally while producing mulch and compost that can be reused throughout the community.

Beginning in 2026, the City will implement a $25 annual access fee for compost site gate cards. The fee supports operation of the facility including equipment, brush grinding, processing of organic materials, and general site maintenance.

Important dates

All existing access cards will be deactivated April 30, 2026.

The annual access period runs May 1 through April 30.

A $25 annual fee is required to activate or renew a compost access card.

Existing access cards

Residents who already have a compost access card do not need a new card. After paying the annual fee, the existing card will simply be reactivated. Replacement cards are only required if a card is lost or damaged for a fee of $40.00.

Obtaining or renewing an access card

Access cards are available at City Hall during normal business hours. Proof of residency or City property ownership is required.

Facility location

1340 220th Street, Saint Croix Falls

Follow Highway 8 * Turn north on 220th Street * Travel approximately 0.33 miles * The compost facility is located on the right.

Facility hours

Dawn to dusk, seven days per week, year-round. The site may temporarily close during severe weather or equipment operations.

Acceptable Materials: grass clippings, leaves, Christmas trees, and brush and logs (must be separated from grass and leaves)

Not Accepted: stumps, trash bags left behind, yard waste left outside of the facility.

*The site will be closed during grinding operations.

How the St. Croix Falls Compost Facility Works

The compost facility plays an important role in reducing landfill waste while turning yard debris into nutrient-rich compost and mulch that residents can reuse.

Resident access

The compost facility is a secured location monitored by gate access and camera surveillance. A valid access card is required, and materials must originate within the City of St. Croix Falls.

The composting process

Windrow formation- Grass clippings and leaves are placed in long rows called windrows. These rows are designed to allow natural decomposition.

Windrow turning- City equipment periodically turns the compost rows to introduce oxygen, speed decomposition, and reduce odors while ensuring even breakdown.

Balancing materials- Some processed brush is added to the compost windrows to improve airflow and balance carbon and nitrogen levels.

Screening- Once composting is complete, the material is screened to remove oversized pieces and produce a consistent finished product.

Brush grinding and mulch production

Brush and logs are stockpiled separately and periodically ground into mulch which residents may use for landscaping, erosion control, and moisture retention.

Finished compost for residents

When available, screened compost may be used for gardens, lawns, flower beds, and soil improvement.

Supporting sustainability in St. Croix Falls

By using the compost facility, residents help reduce landfill use, recycle organic materials locally, lower disposal costs, and support environmentally responsible waste management.

For questions about the compost program, please contact City Hall during normal business hours.