Volunteers at the Upper Clackamas Cleanup

Upper Clackamas Cleanup: 40 Volunteers Unite to Protect Our Rivers on National Public Lands Day

On September 28, 2024, the Clackamas River Basin Council (CRBC) teamed up with the U.S. Forest Service and a passionate group of 40 volunteers to tackle litter and pollution at 26 dispersed campsites along the Clackamas and Collawash Rivers. By cleaning up left trash, we are protecting water quality and keeping our river areas safe and beautiful for everyone to enjoy.

The Clackamas River and its tributary, the Collawash River, are known for their natural beauty and recreational value. Yet, popular campsites along these rivers have been impacted by litter, cans and bottles, campfire remains, and other waste left behind by visitors. This debris can harm local wildlife and contribute to water pollution, affecting the health of the ecosystem and nearby communities that rely on clean drinking water.

Upper Clackamas Cleanup Before
Campsite Cleanup Before Photo
Upper Clackamas Cleanup After
Campsite Cleanup After Photo

Types of Trash We Found

CRBC and its volunteers found left bullets and casings which often contain lead and are toxic in the environment. We removed trash including plastic, glass, and leftover food which can easily find its way into the water, breaking down into microplastics that fish and other animals ingest. We also removed campfire remnants, tires, and household products, all that can contain chemicals that can leach into the water, posing risks to aquatic life and human health.

By cleaning these campsites, CRBC and the volunteers directly contributed to the health of these rivers. Removing litter prevents it from washing into the water and helps restore these camping areas to their natural state.

A Huge Thank You to Our Volunteers!

The success of the Upper Clackamas Cleanup wouldn’t have been possible without our amazing volunteers! These individuals spent the day hiking to remote campsites, gathering trash, and removing unsafe waste that could otherwise harm the environment. Some volunteers even brought their families, making it a meaningful day of stewardship and community bonding.

Partnering for Greater Impact

Our partnership with the U.S. Forest Service helps us extend our reach. We are grateful for their support and for the commitment of every volunteer who joined us.

Looking Ahead

Keeping our rivers clean and healthy is an ongoing effort, and we encourage everyone to help by practicing Leave No Trace principles. If you’re interested in joining us for future cleanup events, or if you’d like to learn more about protecting our river ecosystems, stay connected with the Clackamas River Basin Council!

Together, we can make a difference in keeping our rivers pristine for generations to come. Thank you to everyone who helped make the Upper Clackamas Cleanup a success!


Please donate to support our mission!

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