Why the Facility Closed
The City of South St. Paul closed its Residential Yard Waste Compost Site at the end of the 2025 season. Its last day of operation was November 16. The closure supported two major infrastructure projects:
- Verderosa Avenue Extension extending Verderosa Avenue to Hardman Avenue South
- New Public Works Facility building a replacement Central Maintenance Facility
Construction for these projects is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026 and continue through late 2027. The yard waste site sat in the middle of this project area and could not remain in place during or after construction.
Background
For more than 35 years, residents used this site for yard waste and compost drop-off. The site had several challenges:
- High costs, low return Operating costs outweighed revenue in most years. Rebuilding the site as part of the Public Works project would have cost nearly $454,000.
- Limited benefit Finished compost from the site had little value and was difficult to reuse.
- Restricted access The site was open only on weekends for part of the year.
- Not a common practice No other city in Dakota County ran its own yard waste facility.
The area around the site is also changing. Investments such as the Wakota Trailhead, DNR boat launch upgrades, and redevelopment projects are reshaping the former wastewater plant site into a business and recreation area. A compost operation no longer fit with this vision.
Alternatives for Residents
South St. Paul residents continue to have access to convenient and affordable options:
- Gertens Yard Waste Facility
- Accepts tree debris and brush (not accepted at the former City site)
- Open 7 days a week, year-round with longer hours
- Davey Tree Service (April through September)
- Accepts tree debris and brush
- Curbside Collection
- Most licensed waste haulers in South St. Paul offer seasonal yard waste pickup at the curb. Check with your hauler for details.
What This Means Going Forward
The City recognizes the convenience the facility provided for decades. Closing it supports long-term redevelopment in the area and ensures residents still have access to yard waste services through private providers.