Cleanup Volunteer Info

This is where you'll find resources to help out at a Roadside or River Cleanup. Scroll down for more information, including upcoming events, a wavier, FAQ, and more!

HOW DO CLEANUPS WORK?

Mountain Watershed Association hosts river and roadside cleanups throughout the Youghiogheny River watershed from May - September. We need volunteers to join our cleanups, because more hands make the work light and the day fun!

HOW CAN I PARTICIPATE?

Everyone is welcome to join a roadside or river cleanup! These are very physically active, outdoor days. Please read our FAQ below for a detailed description so you can be prepared!

Check out our events page for current opportunities.

VOLUNTEER RESOURCES & FAQ

How does a river cleanup work?

Most volunteers work in teams of two, paddling two canoes that are tied together with webbing. We then paddle at a relaxed pace downstream, looking for large pieces of trash like tires or appliances. Pile those items into your boats, and paddle to a designated take-out point, where a dumpster is stationed. Be mindful of your boat's weight. The more trash you get, the harder it is to paddle 😉

What if I don't have a boat?

Canoes, paddles, and life vests are available to borrow for the event.

What should I wear?

Wear durable clothing and shoes that you don't mind getting wet and muddy (you WILL get wet and muddy). This clothing should be comfortable for moving around - try synthetic/poly-blend materials and avoid cotton, because it doesn't dry quickly. Wear closed toe shoes - some sharp garbage is lurking in the river.

What should I bring?

MWA will provide gloves and garbage bags for participants. We'll also have some light snacks in the morning for volunteers. Please bring the following items for your personal comfort.

A set of dry clothes for after the cleanup
Sunscreen
Bug spray
Water
Extra snacks
Leave watches and jewelry at home or in your vehicle

Are kids and families allowed?

Absolutely! Just make sure minors have a waiver signed by their guardian.

Shuttle logistics:

Park at the point where we exit the river.
- Leave everything you need for the end of the day in your vehicle.
- Don't forget your keys!
MWA staff will shuttle everyone to the put-in.
Once we reach the take-out, your car will be there!

If you are bringing your own boat, drop it off at our launch point and head to the take-out to park your vehicle and meet our staff.

Important things to note:

This day is as hard or easy as you'd like it to be! We don't expect volunteers to remove every single piece of garbage from the river in just a couple hours.
Stay on top of nutrition and hydration - cleanups are hard work!
All staff boats will have a first aid kit for general bumps and bruises.
In the event of an emergency, call 911 first.

Is there a waiver?

Yes! All participants must sign the MWA Liability Waiver

ROADSIDE CLEANUPS

Our cleanup crews typically work on MWA's "adopted" section of Indian Creek Valley Road in Melcroft.

This section is roughly 2 miles long, and we'll walk along it, picking up litter on the way.

MWA will supply trash grabbers, trash bags, and reflective vests for safety.