The 32nd Annual River & Road Cleanup, organized by The Valley Women’s Club, takes place in Boulder Creek, Ben Lomond, and Felton on Saturday, September 15th from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lompico Community Center holds their annual Cleanup the same morning from 9 to noon. The VWC and Lompico coordinate the effort with Save Our Shores, whose morning Coastal Cleanup now reaches up the River. Each organization emphasizes the link between the health of the San Lorenzo River Watershed to the health of the Bay and the Ocean.

It Takes a Valley

Individuals, families, and groups of all ages are encouraged to come help clean up trash and recyclables from in and along the creeks and River, and from along the riparian roadways, to prevent trash from being washed downstream to the Bay, causing damage along the way.

In Felton, volunteers can help any time after 9 a.m. for as long as they want, up to closing at 3 p.m. Check in at the Felton Covered Bridge Park, or at the table along Hwy 9 near Fillmore St., or at the SLV Redemption/Recycling Center (behind the Village Wash & Dry) in Boulder Creek. Until noon, the Cleanup is co-sponsored by Save Our Shores at all sites.

The River & Road Cleanup is again generously supported by the SLV Water District and the County of Santa Cruz. Each provides a dump truck and drivers to haul recyclables and trash to the Ben Lomond Transfer Station, where the County will provide free disposal of the trash. The VWC’s three SLV Redemption/Recycling Centers will process the recyclable materials.

Safety is Paramount During the Cleanup

Volunteers are required to sign a waiver of liability, and children 12 and under must be with an adult. Anyone working along the river or a creek must have a buddy. Bring gloves and wear sturdy shoes and readily visible clothing. Safety vests are available. Large signs warning drivers about volunteers on the roads will be posted along Cleanup routes.

Students can Earn Community Service Credit

Forms are provided for the hours worked.

How Can You Help?

Volunteers are encouraged to bring cars and trucks to help transport materials to the three pick-up points and are encouraged to enlist help from family and friends, churches, youth groups, schools, and community organizations.
Valley Women’s Club volunteers will staff the SLV sign-in/weigh-in stations; they will provide trash bags, latex gloves, snacks and water, and can suggest cleanup locations. Volunteers with trucks are needed.

Do You Know of a Hot Spot?

If you know of a place needing particular attention this year or need additional information, please contact VWC Environmental Committee Chair, Nancy Macy, at (831) 338-6578, or email.