Question
I have 3 large (50+ ft.) & 3 medium pine trees in my front yard planted by the previous owner.  I converted to desert landscape a couple of years ago, going to great expense to make the front yard very attractive with the main focus being a dry river bed. The majority of my rock is the fine ground up type, resembling sand.  However, I have larger rock placed along the edge of my yard and the sidewalk to prevent erosion as my yard slopes downward. I have had a heck of a time removing the needles from the rock placed along the edge of my yard and the sidewalk. I've raked and used a blower to dislodge the needles. Both methods deliver so-so results.  I've hired a professional landscaper to remove the needles on a monthly basis.  I think he and his crew have done an excellent job.  My HOA is still not satisfied, and have taken steps to fine me for not taking care of the pine needles.  I'm convinced my HOA is insensitive to the difficulties inherent with pine needles and rock landscaping.  I don't believe every needle CAN be removed. What's a reasonable expectation and HOW can I achieve it?  I'm scheduled for a hearing with my HOA next week.  I want to be positive and resolve the issue.  I hope you can help.

Answer
I am not sure what the question is. Pines will drop needles as new ones grow. Pines have two sets of needles and will shed the older ones as new ones grow. This is a natural thing. I am not sure what the HOA wants. Needles will be shed form time to time and it would seem  very unreasonable to think al of them could be picked up each day. The rocks being added around the pines caused stress on the roots and this in turn caused the needles to shed. a "desert landscape" is not the natural habitat for pines. The soil has been compressed and the roots are not getting enough water. I would water the pines with 1 inch of water per week-place a pan under the trees and turn the sprinkler on and when the pan has 1 inch of water in it stop. This will help stop the needles from shedding. Pines straw is used as a mulch around pines trees and I would think it is normal from the needles to be in the rocks.
I hope this cmes close to what you wanted.