By Lindsay Box
Last Saturday, fall finally graced the Inland Northwest with her presence for the most beautiful day for the 20th annual Spokane River Clean-Up. This beloved community tradition not only celebrated two decades of environmental stewardship, but it also showcased the unwavering commitment of the Spokane community to our beloved Spokane River. On this sunshiny day, over 400 participants rolled up their sleeves and set out to make a significant impact!
Armed with garbage bags, maps, and a shared purpose, participants came from all walks of life, representing a wide cross section of Spokane. Families, students, environmental enthusiasts, and local businesses all joined forces to make a difference. With the riverbanks as their canvas, volunteers fanned out across various sections of the Spokane River. - and the sunshine provided the perfect backdrop for the day's efforts.
The hard work and dedication of the volunteers paid off in spades. By the end of the day, an astounding 2,830 pounds of trash and recyclables had been collected from along the Spokane River banks. That’s 1.42 tons!
The 20th Annual Spokane River Clean-Up was more than just a clean-up event; it was a celebration of community spirit. Participants bonded over shared goals amid the riverside beauty. Local businesses and sponsors also played their part by providing essential resources and incentives for the volunteers.
Looking ahead, the Spokane community remains committed to safeguarding the Spokane River and its surroundings. If you didn’t get enough clean-up action, you can participate in a private or DIY clean-up with the Spokane River Forum and Spokane Riverkeeper. This major clean-up event served as a reminder that even in the face of challenges, the power of collective action can produce lasting change.
As we bid farewell to this year's clean-up, we eagerly await the 21st edition, knowing that Spokane will continue to shine as a beacon of community engagement and environmental responsibility.
