‘Mulch Mayhem’ coming to Sacramento area to help residents conserve water

Get ready for “Mulch Mayhem” in Sacramento.

The city is offering a free pickup day where residents can get mulch on Saturday, May 16, officials said. The event will take place at the city’s South Area Corporation Yard at 5730 24th St. from 8 a.m. to noon, or while supplies last.

The mulch giveaway is intended to help residents conserve water.

“Mulch is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help your landscape use less water,” William Granger, the city’s water conservation coordinator, said. “It helps soil retain moisture, reduces evaporation and keeps plants healthier during Sacramento’s hot summers.”

Residents are advised to bring a truck or trailer for city workers to fill with mulch. Or you can shovel your own mulch at a self-serve station.

Households are limited to 1 cubic yard of mulch.

“If you plan to load your own mulch, be sure to bring a shovel and a container,” Granger said. “We also recommend bringing a tarp to help cover and secure your load before leaving the site.”

Other “Mulch Mayhem” events also are scheduled throughout the Sacramento area:

The Carmichael Water District is hosting the event at 7837 Fair Oaks Blvd. in Carmichael.

The Sacramento Suburban Water District Facility at 917 Enterprise Drive in Sacramento also will host a giveaway.

In Placer County, a mulch giveaway will be held at the Lincoln: Lincoln Airport at 1420 Flightline Drive.

Events also will be held at the Sierra College overflow parking lot at Rocklin Road and El Don Drive in Rocklin and a parking lot at 9100 Foothills Boulevard in Roseville.

Bring a shovel, container or tarp, and a means to haul away mulch. A few locations also will fill your truck bed for you.

This story was originally published May 6, 2026 at 1:50 PM.