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Article posted Wednesday, August 28, 2013 2:34pm

Dear Mary Pat,

I think my neighbor is taking this composting craze a bit too far. She’s given me a lecture or two about how important composting is, and I agree, but she must not trust me or anyone in the neighborhood. I’ve caught her digging through my garbage for compostable materials. Not only am I disgusted, I feel violated. Isn’t it illegal to dig through someone else’s trashcan? Can’t she just worry about herself, hand out some flyers and relax?

Signed,

Green Gone Too Far

Ephraim, WI

Dear Green Gone Too Far,

This is absolutely a violation. What kind of neighbor roots around in your trash? It’s not illegal in most places, but it is seriously going over the top. You need to have a frank discussion with your neighbor and have her learn to respect your limits. If she can’t do that, maybe it’s time to invest in a lock on your garbage can. Or, keep it in your garage until it’s time for the garbage man to collect it.

Good luck,

Mary Pat