A passion for a pristine river inspires one of Sacramento County’s biggest volunteer efforts this fall.

On September 19^th, more than 1,500 workers will remove trash and household items that rafters, picnickers, and illegal dumpers inevitably leave in the American River.

Coordinated by the American River Parkway Foundation, the project spruces up 23 miles of river and reserves between Discovery Park and Hazel Avenue. Twenty-two sites—including beauty spots in Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Gold River, Rancho Cordova, Arcade, and Sacramento—are included in the housekeeping. The event coincides with Coastal Clean-Up Day, spearheaded by the California Coastal Commission.

The project marks the end of the summer parkway activity. “We tell people to always take out what they bring in,” said a Parkway Foundation spokesman. “Unfortunately, many rafters and picnickers forget to bring trash bags.” Debris not only mars landscapes; it causes pollution and endangers natural species that inhabit, feed, and breed in waterways and coastal areas.

While drought is generally bad news for the American River, low water levels enable easier recovery of sunken debris. Last year, almost 22,000 pounds of trash (including many thousands of cigarette butts and plastic bags) were removed from the artery. Sacramento County disposed of the haul.

Anyone may assist the Great American River Clean-Up. Stout boots and gloves are recommended for volunteers. Participation qualifies for student community service hours. For volunteer gathering points, call (916) 486-2773 or visit www.arpf.org.