PORTLAND, Ore. — Environmental nonprofit SOLVE and Clackamas Water Environment Services have officially launched the 2026 Waterway Cleanup Series, continuing a long-running partnership focused on protecting rivers, streams, and natural areas through volunteer-led cleanup events across the region.
Now entering its ninth year, the seasonal initiative brings together community volunteers to remove litter from shorelines, parks, and waterways before debris can wash into local rivers and eventually the Pacific Ocean.
The 2026 series began May 6 with a cleanup at Meldrum Bar Park and Dahl Beach in Gladstone. According to organizers, 22 volunteers collected more than 250 pounds of litter during the event, including plastic waste, cigarette butts, two tires, a shopping cart, and a pair of boots.
Located along the Willamette River, the parks are popular recreation destinations for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Organizers said maintaining clean public spaces helps protect aquatic ecosystems while keeping the areas accessible for residents and visitors.
Officials noted that trash left on streets, trails, and riverbanks can travel through stormwater systems into nearby creeks and rivers, harming wildlife and degrading habitat throughout the watershed.
“The Waterway Cleanup Series is about protecting the places that connect our communities,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE. “Every cleanup helps prevent pollution from entering our waterways while creating healthier spaces for people and wildlife alike.”
SOLVE and WES are encouraging individuals, businesses, schools, and community groups to participate in upcoming cleanup events or organize local efforts throughout the summer. Organizers said cleanup supplies, volunteer support, and event guidance are available to help communities host their own projects.
The series will continue through the summer before concluding Sept. 16 with a final cleanup event at High Rocks Park along the Clackamas River.
Organizers highlighted the success of the 2025 cleanup season, during which more than 1,700 volunteers participated in 60 cleanup events across Oregon and Southwest Washington. Volunteers removed more than 31,000 pounds of litter from 19 waterways and natural areas, including the Columbia River, Rogue River, Tualatin River, and Sandy River.
More information about upcoming events and volunteer opportunities is available at SOLVE Waterway Cleanup Series.
About the Author
Discover more from Right Now Oregon
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
