The annual Earth Day Charles River Cleanup returned on Saturday, April 23. Recognized nationally from 2016-2019 by American Rivers for the Most Pounds of Trash Collected and Most Volunteers Mobilized, the Charles River Cleanup brings together over 3,500 volunteers each year to keep the Charles River clean, safe, and beautiful for all.
“I am happy to share that the clean up was a resounding success,” said a spokesperson for the Emerald Necklace Conservancy. “With the help of over 300 volunteers, over 250 bags of litter, brush, and invasive species were removed throughout the Emerald Necklace.
The Charles River Cleanup builds on a national effort as part of American Rivers’ National River Cleanup®, which to date has removed over 25 million pounds of trash from America’s waterways. Each year since 2009, Charles River Cleanup Volunteers have gathered to pick up litter, remove invasive species, and assist with park maintenance along all 80 miles of the Charles River and the 1,100 acres of Emerald Necklace parkland surrounding the Muddy River, a tributary of the Charles.
Residents are drawn to the popular Charles River Cleanup from a desire to give back to their community while enjoying the beauty and wildlife along the river. Volunteers hold onto the connections they establish during this day of stewardship by returning to the Charles to exercise, play and enjoy nature throughout the year.
The Charles River Cleanup is organized by the Charles River Conservancy, the Charles River Watershed Association, the Emerald Necklace Conservancy, the Esplanade Association, and Waltham Land Trust in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation, Senator Will Brownsberger, and the Muddy Water Initiative. Those looking to volunteer or sponsor the Charles River Cleanup can visit charlesrivercleanup.org.