The D.C. Department of Public Works began its fall leaf collection period this week, so if you've got a lot of leaves to deal with around your house, it's worth a reminder how this works. First things first, head to http://leaf.dcgis.dc.gov/ and search for your address on the DPW leaf collection status map. The map will return a list of of scheduled leaf collection periods for your area. Take a note of the dates, and then before your next scheduled pass begins, rake all the leaves in front of your house and sidewalk into a pile in the nearest tree box. DPW crews will then come around and vacuum them up. And if you think you might have been missed, make sure to call 311 to request additional leaf removal service. more ›