Don't rake your leaves!

[Catherine]

Leaves on the grass are nature's fertilizer. They are mostly gone by spring. I even think they look good.
More importantly they provide shelter for little creatures. They shelter earthworms and grubs and lots of small stuff. Your salamanders would not do well on a clean green lawn. It is always better if we work with nature. 

I think various bee species need the leaves as well. Think how many ways you are helping nature by sitting back and letting the leaves fall where they may.