2024 Chippewa River Cleanup Cancelled
8/2/2024 1:59:00 PM - Environmental Team

Due to the forecast of high humidity, potential thunderstorms, and predicted rainfall we will unfortunately be canceling the 2024 Chippewa River Cleanup. We hope everyone is able to enjoy the remainder of the summer while staying cool and hydrated. J

Please help clean up and keep clean our Tribal lands and waters, parking lots, sidewalks, buildings, trails, and spaces. You can make a difference by practicing responsible hiking, walking, or outdoor recreation by picking up just one piece of trash. You can start small with things that could fit in your pocket like candy wrappers or plastic waste, then progress to larger items and bring a trash bag when you are able.

Reasons to Pick Up Trash: protects Mother Earth and wildlife; prevents water pollution; promotes public health; can inspire others to take action; reduces greenhouse gas emissions; conserves natural resources; supports environmental education and stewardship; improves mental health; encourages community engagement; creates a cleaner, safer community; supports local conservation efforts; and sets a good example for the next generations to come.

Safety: Be sure to always use care and best judgement when picking up garbage - wear close toed shoes and protective gloves or use a trash grabber for items that may be sharp or hazardous. Safety first – only pick up trash that is safe to handle and can be easily disposed of or recycled. Avoid touching litter directly and do not touch your face while cleaning up. If you do not have a trash grabber a repurposed pair of BBQ or salad tongs can work as a pickup device. If it is not clean – it cannot be recycled, meaning if it is moldy or is not relatively clean you can throw it in the trash bag. Bring hand sanitizer if you are able and be sure to wash your hands as soon as you have finished. Leave hazardous items such as: needles, medical waste, syringes, batteries, oil drums, and canisters ALONE as these may not be safe and have specific waste instructions and regulations.

Community input is an important part of environmental health to help guide cleanups, reuse and redevelopment activities. Identifying and responding to environmental concerns is enhanced when individual community members become involved. To report concerns regarding illegal dumping, hazardous materials, contaminated land or pollution concerns call the Planning department at (989) 775-4014.

If you are interested in volunteering please watch for details regarding a cleanup walk towards the end of September.

Katie Hager

Environmental Outreach Coordinator       

989.775.4585