Mayor’s Annual River Clean Up Is Saturday

Every year for the past 11 years, volunteers have gathered at the Sixth Street Bridge Park and helped the Mayor clean up the banks of the Grand River.

This Saturday they'll do it again, and they can always use extra help, are you in? Oh, and did I mention there's free beer?

The 11th annual Mayor's River Bank Clean Up sets off this Saturday from Sixth Street Bridge Park commencing at 9:00am sharp. Wear close toed shoes and dress for the weather (which looks like it may be pretty nice, although there's a slight chance of rain).

Anyone who can safely and responsibly navigate riverbank terrain is welcome to participate. Young volunteers need a permission slip completed by their parent or guardian and should be supervised closely by an adult on the day of the event.

In ten years of garbage collecting volunteers have removed more than 55 tons of refuse from the banks of the Grand. It is the largest event of its kind in the Midwest and will again feature an after party with beer provided by Founder's for those over 21.

the event is sponsored by the West Michigan Enivronmental Action Council, and WMEAC volunteer Becky Brown recently told The Rapidian that the event keeps growing, “With the huge amount of community support we have seen over the past decade, we continue to grow the event in order to keep our volunteers busy.”

“It is not just trash that is polluting the Grand River. There is stormwater pollution flowing into our streams that is causing even more damage than the bags of trash.” said Rachel Hood, WMEAC Executive Director. “We hope this event will be able to showcase how all the communities around the Grand River can work together every day to keep the Grand River clean.”

Family and friends are encouraged to participate together! During online registration, you will have the opportunity to list the friends and family you want to participate with. Thinking of bringing a club, a group from your church, or your coworkers? E-mail Becky Brown to learn more.