Marrs Tree Service will complete the final chipping of the tree limbs that have been deposited south of Johnson Drive, west of Renner Road during the first weekend of September. There will be mulch available for Shawnee residents to use on a first-come, first-served basis as long as supplies last or until November 15, 2010. We will continue to take tree limbs until the pile of limbs has been ground into mulch. After that, the site will be closed for debris drop-off. Residents with questions can call Public Works at (913) 742-6008.

Why mulch? Mulch can improve your garden in a variety of ways by:

• Controlling weeds, conserving moisture, improving water infiltration, reducing soil compaction, controlling erosion and protecting roots from freezing.
• Keeping soil at a uniform temperature and promoting the growth of garden-friendly microorganisms and earthworms.
• Acting as a slow release fertilizer as it decays.
• Acting as a blanket for soil and keeping it in an ideal condition for maximum plant growth.
• Saving time and money by reducing the need to weed, water and fertilize.