Every year, the Rochester Parks and Forestry Division collects approximately 600 tons of trash from our parks and city buildings. In alignment with the city’s continued commitment to environmental sustainability and fiscal responsibility, Rochester Parks and Recreation is implementing the “Pack In, Pack Out” or “Leave No Trace” model for park waste management.

“All of the trash collected in our local parks originates elsewhere,” said Park and Forestry Division Head Mike Nigbur, such as trash cleaned out of cars and lunchtime leftovers. “We are asking all park and trail users to take out whatever waste they bring in,” including pet waste.

While the “Pack In, Pack Out” style of waste management has been a standard in state and federal parks for many years, the trend is now moving toward urban park activities as well. Cities, large and small, see this trend as a way to decrease carbon footprints and reduce the ongoing staff and funding needed to regularly collect park waste.

To help achieve this sustainability goal, the city will eliminate waste collection at smaller neighborhood parks but maintain some trash receptacles at key locations in the park system. 

“Taking care of your own trash is a great way to show respect for the parks that everyone enjoys and for other park users,” said Nigbur. “This change really is a communitywide and environmental benefit.”

Pack In, Pack Out is an easy concept to adopt with just a little planning.

• Use reusable water bottles or reusable bags so you can take them home when you are done.
• Tie a dog waste bag to the dog collar or leash for when your dog takes care of business.
• Put a small trash bag with handles in your pocket for any trash you may pick up along the way.
• Use a picnic basket to carry in and carry out your lunch and leftovers.
• Keep your household and car waste at home and don’t deposit in the parks.
• Take waste to Olmsted County Recycling Center.