Volunteers Needed For Mississippi River Cleanup In Maplewood On Earth Day

Volunteers Needed For 'Mighty Mississippi Cleanup Challenge' In Anoka County To Tackle Litter On Riverbanks

Every hand's needed for a scrub-up on the Mississippi. Anoka County is calling on volunteers for the 'Mighty Mississippi Cleanup Challenge,' aiming to clear the iconic river's banks of litter.

"Hats off to Goodhue County for starting this annual cleanup and to Anoka County for also promoting and participating in it," Parks Committee Chair Jeff Reinert told Anoka County. Volunteers have three chances to join in: April 22 at Coon Rapids, April 24 at Riverfront Park, Fridley, and April 27 at Mississippi West, Ramsey.

The spring cleaning days are part of the larger battle against the trash piling up along the riverbanks, which Goodhue County officials observed back in 2022, prompting action that now includes Anoka County's efforts, with volunteers encouraged to meet at designated locations where they'll be equipped with garbage and recyclable bags to tackle the debris, participants should wear sturdy footwear and gloves because safety first and after all those good deeds don't forget to shout out your civic pride online with a #winneristheriver.

If you're keen on lending a hand to nature's cause, it's just a call away—dial 763-324-3413 to RSVP for any of the cleanup events.

The county's parks staff will be on standby, helping with the heavy lifting and disposal of any hazardous finds, ensuring the volunteer's efforts are safe and effective.
With the Mississippi River previously named the sixth most endangered in the country, there's more at stake here than just a bit of garbage collecting, as a 2021 survey by citizen scientists revealed an eye-watering 660 pounds of plastic over 69 square miles, spotlighting the river's plight and underscoring the stark necessity for these cleanup drives—drives that make the Mighty Mississippi more than just a name but a river reborn through community and care.

SOURCE: hoodline