The annual Spring Clean-up is good for the river and a great way to show your community spirit. (Scroll down for maps, directions and volunteer opportunities.)
Background: The annual Neuse River Clean-up began 5 years ago when Upper Neuse Riverkeeper Dean Naujoks joined the NRF team. At the time there were several small river clean-ups sponsored by various community groups in Raleigh. Deans idea was to merge these small local clean-ups into one big annual event coordinated by NRF. In doing so, Dean was also able to get the City of Raleigh to provide extra trash pick-ups and the Wake County Commissioners agreed to waive the landfill fees. The first year was a smashing success; 70 volunteers covered 20 miles of the Neuse River and hauled out more than 7,000 pounds of trash.
Four years later, the river clean-up had grown to include 50 miles of river from Falls Dam in North Raleigh to Smithfield. In addition, Larry Baldwin, Lower Neuse Riverkeeper organized a clean-up in downtown Kinston. In total, the 2006 clean-up covered 62 miles of the Neuse River and netted 21,000 pounds of trash with 300 volunteers!
Of course, the real success would be a river with no trash. But, dont let the numbers discourage you; the previously cleaned sections are staying cleaner. The 2006 figures included removing two rotting cars from Crabtree Creeka project we had never before attempted. Crabtree Creek is a tributary of the Neuse that runs through the heart of Raleigh. This year we hope to pull out a garbage dumpster!
How to Volunteer
Volunteers pick-up trash on the riverbank
Volunteers will be cleaning up trash along the banks of the river, on the islands, and around access areas like bridges. We have clean-up stations located at canoe launch sites between Falls Dam and Smithfield Commons. Further downstream there is one clean-up station located in Kinston and one in Snow Hill. Please locate the most convenient station and come out between 8 and 9 am. (It is not necessary to stay until 2 PM, many folks cleaning the shoreline work for two or three hours.)
PADDLERS should arrive around 8 AM to get an early start on the river. VOLUNTEERS on foot, cleaning the shoreline should arrive between 9 and 10 am.
We provide: Gloves and trash bags are provided at all locations. Shuttle service provided for paddlers at specified locations. Shuttle trailers provided for canoes and kayaks at specified locations. All volunteers must sign an insurance waiver. A parent or guardian must accompany volunteers under the age of 18.
What You Should Bring: Dress for muddy wet conditions Sunscreen Bug repellent Snack
