Join the Merrimack River Watershed Council (MRWC) in paddling on the river and removing trash July 17 from 9am to noon. The meeting place and parking location is Lawrence Abe Bashara Boathouse 1 Eaton St, Lawrence. MRWC and the Greater Lawrence Community Boating are partnering to get the community together to clean up the river by canoe. The cleanup will be along the banks of the Merrimack River around the Lawrence boathouse. There are also opportunities to walk along the river to clean up as well if you don’t want to canoe.
The Merrimack River has gotten a lot cleaner over the decades after the passing of the Clean Water Act in 1972. However, there is still an unacceptable amount of trash that still finds its way into the river, harming people and wildlife. Removing trash is an important way to connect with your local watershed and community, and learn pollution issues.
Staff will be on site in kayaks and boat launches to help participants safely load in and out of the boats, offer paddling tips, off load any full trash bags, and answer questions about the river along the way. Everyone will be assigned into groups to ensure we cover as much water as possible. MRWC recommends that paddlers be eight years old and above, younger river lovers are welcome to sit in the center of the canoes and enjoy the experience with their families. Participants will need to sign waivers upon arrival. No need to bring anything but yourselves, sun protection, water bottle, and enthusiasm. All canoes, life jackets and other equipment will be provided by the boathouse and MRWC. Also available will be a water jug to refill water bottles, but bring your own bottle.
FREE LUNCH WILL BE PROVIDED BY MRWC from El Taller. Veggie Torta (made vegan) with tostones. For questions, contact Maya Sterett by emailing: volunteer@merrimack.org.
