Hundreds of volunteers are expected to join the Flint River Watershed Coalition (FRWC) and their partners at sites across Genesee and Lapeer Counties on April 27 from 9-12pm. Traditionally referred to as the Flint River and Community Clean Up, the annual Stewardship Day brings the community together to make a big impact on the Flint River and its watershed. Volunteers are still needed.
This cleanup event has been an April staple for more than 20 years, originating with the Friends of the Flint River Trail. Over the years, many partners have joined forces to now create one of the area’s largest cleanup efforts. Partnering with the Keep Genesee County Beautiful, Genesee County Parks, the City of Flint, the City of Lapeer, Kettering University and many others, the FRWC and its chapters hosted more than 250 volunteers in 2018 at 18 sites across the watershed. These same partners and more have come together again in 2019 with an ambitious goal of exceeding 500 volunteers.
The FRWC encourages participants to join in on the viral hashtag trash challenge during the event by tagging their social media photos with #TrashTag #FlintRiver. Photos of interesting or unusual items can be submitted to amitchell@flintriver.org for a chance to compete for the annual Golden Gloves Award which is voted on publicly and awarded the following January at the FRWC Annual Celebration.
Sites, partners, and activities
Vietnam Veterans’ Memorial Park, 2000 James P. Cole Blvd, Flint
Join the Friends of the Flint River Trail for trash and debris clean up along the Flint River Trail and lunch.
Atwood Stadium, 701 University Ave, Flint
Join Kettering University staff and students for trash cleanup near Atwood Stadium and Chevy Commons.
Thread Lake @ McKinley Park Vista Center, 2999 Orville St, Flint
Join Mike Herriman and Vern’s Collision for trash and debris cleanup around Thread Lake.
Old Farmers’ Market,420 E Boulevard Dr, Flint (Check-in at Re-Store)
Join Habitat for Humanity for trash and debris cleanup along the river from the Re-Store to Riverbank Park.
Holloway Dam Canoe Access Area, 7411 Holloway Dr, Davison
Distribute PFAS information and assist with trash cleanup near this popular fishing spot.
Mott Park Recreation Area, 2401 Nolen Dr, Flint
Join Flint Town Flyerz for trash and debris cleanup throughout the Mott Park Recreation Area.
