soil

There are two ways of looking at everything, even our famous (or infamous) New England autumn leaf bonanza. Leaf removal is sometimes a big yard job--but it's also a free source of soil fertility. Leaves are important habitat for overwintering insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Leaf piles provide food for overwintering birds. The nests of ground-nesting bees are disguised and protected by fallen leaves. 

There are five ways, by my count, to capture the value of leaves. See "Death. Taxes. Autumn Leaves." Or download the article, "Put Leaf Mulch to Work: Five Ways," attached below.