River Cleanups

Click Here to Watch a Video of Our 2009 Cleanup at FDU!


A big part of Hackensack Riverkeeper's mission to protect, preserve and restore the Hackensack River watershed is to engage the people of our watershed to take responsibility for it. Throughout the year, we invite the community to participate in the many River Cleanups we host in various locations in the watershed.


At most cleanups, we work on foot to clear trash and other debris from the banks of the river as well as pulling trash out of the river from canoes. Cleanups generally last about four hours, and Hackensack Riverkeeper provides all the canoes, PFDs (personal flotation devices), paddles, hip waders, garbage bags, gloves, pickup sticks, meals and refreshments that you will need to get the job done. Just be sure to wear clothes that you don't mind getting dirty.

Individuals and families are encouraged to just show up and get to work. Groups of less than 10 from within the watershed are welcome, but we ask that you let us know how many folks you're planning to bring so we can be sure to have enough food and supplies on hand. There is no age requirement to participate, but children must be supervised. You must be 16 or older to PADDLE a canoe (some exceptions may be made based upon experience level, and two paddlers are required per canoe).

If your group (scouts, schools, civic groups, corporations) would like to organize a "charter" cleanup on a date and location of your choice, one can be arranged for a minimum donation of $1,500 to help us cover costs and sustain the public cleanup program. For more information, or to be placed on our contact list, please sign up below or contact Sarah at 201-968-0808, or sarah@hackensackriverkeeper.org.


Would you like to Volunteer?
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2011 River Cleanup Schedule
 

Saturday, April 23, 10 AM - 2 PM, Overpeck County Park, Leonia
Saturday, May 7, 11 AM - 3 PM, Kenneth B. George Park, River Edge**
Sunday, May 22, 10 AM - 1 PM, Staib Park, Hackensack*
Saturday, June 18, 1 PM - 4 PM, Laurel Hill County Park, Secaucus
Sunday, July 10, 10 AM - 2 PM, 16th Street Park, Bayonne
Saturday, July 16, 10 AM - 1 PM, Mill Creek Marsh, Secaucus
Saturday, August 13, 9 AM - Noon, Lake Tappan, Pearl River, NY
Saturday, September 17, 10 AM - 2 PM, Foschini Park, Hackensack

Saturday, October 22, 9 AM - 5 PM, NEW Overpeck Park, Ridgefield Park/Teaneck
 
* Canoes will not be employed at these cleanups.
**Co-sponsored by River Edge Environmental Commission.


See you on the river!