Delaware River Greenway Partnership (DRGP) has joined forces with NJ Clean Communities programs in Hunterdon and Mercer County and the NJ Park Service to help tackle the litter along the shore of our Wild and Scenic Delaware River.
This year’s cleanup includes 18 areas along the river ranging from Holland Township in Hunterdon County all the way to Duck Island at the Abbott Marshlands in Hamilton. In addition to shoreline cleanups, there will be one boat-based cleanup as well at the Giving Pond in Bucks County.
In 2022, volunteers removed an impressive amount of debris from the river including:
• Over 250 bags of trash and recycling
• Over 35 tires
• A fiberglass boat
• A few bicycles
• Snorkeling apparatuses
• Tubing paddles
• TVs
• Construction debris
• Flotation devices and Styrofoam
Alison Sommers-Sayre, executive director of DRGP remarked, “The pandemic helped us appreciate our outdoor resources more than ever. It’s wonderful to see so many in our community continue to enjoy time along the river — paddling, walking, tubing, biking, bird watching or traveling the Delaware River Scenic Byway. With increased use comes the need for increased stewardship, and the Annual Delaware River Cleanup is an important way to help. Joining us, and many of your neighbors, to spend a few hours on river cleanup, is a great way to individually make a difference and to work together to ensure the Delaware River continues to be a cherished resource.”
To register, click on one of the cleanup registration locations on the DRGP webpage at bit.ly/ 3qIB9qW. Additional information about each site will be provided along with the required waiver form. Children are welcome and encouraged to help.
Registered volunteers should bring insect repellent and water. Comfortable clothing, long pants, and closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Participants will be provided with trash bags and gloves. A complimentary cleanup T-shirt will be provided.
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).
