Volunteers needed to help clean up Delaware River and canal in N.J.

New Jersey Clean Communities is holding their second annual Delaware River Cleanup on Saturday, Sept. 21, and is looking for volunteers to help.

The cleanup takes place from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m., and volunteers are needed for shoreline cleanups in Kingwood, Bull’s Island in Stockton, and at the Holcombe-Jimison Farmstead in Lambertville. If water levels permit, boat-based cleanups will be held out of Kingwood and Bull’s Island.

Advance registration is required for this rain-or-shine (except thunderstorms) event. Details and registration can be found online.

“While it’s wonderful to see people enjoying the river, unfortunately trash is often left behind,” said Kathy Klink, a Delaware Township employee who is helping with the event. “While it’s wonderful to see people enjoying the river, unfortunately trash is often left behind. We hope folks will donate a few hours of their time to help clean the shoreline and waterways. Last year we had 90 volunteers and we hope to increase participation to 150 volunteers.”

In addition to Delaware Township, the D&R Canal State Park, Hunterdon County Parks, Delaware River Greenway Partnership, West Amwell Township Clean Communities, Lambertville Clean Communities, Hunterdon County Clean Communities, Kingwood Clean Communities and Delaware Canal State Park (PA) are all co-sponsoring the event.

Adults and supervised children are welcome. School groups and scout organizations are encouraged to participate. Volunteers should bring insect repellent, wear comfortable clothing, long pants, and sturdy, closed-toe shoes and arrive at 8:30 a.m. at their registered locations. Participants will be provided with trash bags and gloves, and will receive a t-shirt as thanks for their time. At noon, a complimentary pizza lunch will be provided.

Besides picking up litter, volunteers are also needed to serve as leaders for the event. Leaders will supervise 10-12 cleanup volunteers and will be trained in safety measures. Required safety training sessions will take place on Sept. 17 in Delaware Township. To help as a leader, email Kathy Klink.