Volunteers Needed for Oct. 16th NJ Delaware River Cleanup

The NJ Clean Communities Delaware River Cleanup scheduled for Sept. 18 in Hunterdon County and Mercer County has been rescheduled to October 16th, 2021 due to river conditions and debris along the riverbanks.

Delaware River Cleanup 2021Donna Morgan, the Ewing Green Team’s representative helping with the event said, “The Delaware River gives so much to our community- drinking water, habitat for hundreds of different flora and fauna, and numerous recreational opportunities. Let's give back to the Delaware by working together to clean its banks.” 

The NJ State Park Service, Delaware Canal State Park (PA), Hunterdon County, Delaware River Greenway Partnership, many Clean Communities programs including Delaware Township, West Amwell Township, Lambertville, Kingwood, Stockton, Holland Township, Frenchtown Borough, Hamilton Township, as well as the Trenton Kiwanis, and Friends of the Marsh, are all co-sponsoring the event.         

Last year the cleanup attracted over 100 volunteers. Collecting over 100 bags of trash and recycling along with 30 tires and large pieces of debris, this event was recognized as a 2021 National Scenic Byway Foundation Community Award Winner. “Sleepy communities saw thousands of more visitors than in years past, so the cleanup made a huge difference to maintain the Byways' appearance,” according to the Foundation. The Delaware River Cleanup was one of only eight winners selected from across the country.

This year with expanded locations in Mercer County, there are more opportunities for additional volunteers. There are currently 14 volunteers signed up and it would be wonderful to fill the event.  There are no COVID restrictions, but the organizers reserve the right to impose requirements if health conditions change. 

Registered volunteers should bring a signed waiver, insect repellent, and water to the event. Comfortable clothing, long pants, closed-toe shoes, and masks are mandatory. Participants will be provided with trash bags and gloves. Volunteers will receive a t-shirt and light refreshments as a thank you for their time. 

Advance registration is required by visiting www.delawarerivergreenwaypartnership.org. The cleanup will focus on river areas from Holland Township in Hunterdon County all the way south to the freshwater tidal area of the Delaware River in Hamilton Township. The Scudder Falls area in Ewing Township will be the focus of the Ewing Green Team’s efforts.  When registering for the cleanup, volunteers can select from 15 locations for the area most convenient for them including two boat-based cleanups, one in Upper Bucks County, PA. To see all the location options, volunteers can adjust the map on the registration site.

If you see someone dumping or involved in illegal activities at any State Park, call the NJDEP at 1-877-927-6337 (1-877-WARN DEP).