From staff reports

SPRING CREEK — ClearWater Conservancy will host its 30th annual Watershed Cleanup Day on Saturday, April 18, inviting volunteers to help remove trash from streams, roadsides and parks across central Pennsylvania.

The event will run from 8 a.m. to noon and is open to individuals, families and groups. Participants can register in advance and will be assigned to cleanup sites throughout Centre County.

Organizers said the effort, which began in 1997 with a focus on the Spring Creek watershed, has grown into one of the region’s longest-running environmental stewardship events. That first cleanup drew more than 500 volunteers who removed about 17 tons of trash.

In recent years, participation has increased while the amount of waste collected has declined, reflecting long-term progress in reducing litter. In 2025, more than 600 volunteers removed about 12,800 pounds of trash.

Volunteers may serve as site coordinators or general participants. Coordinators help lead efforts at more than 60 locations, while general volunteers assist with litter removal. Assignments are based on group size, ages and location.

To mark the 30th anniversary, registered participants may also take part in a screen-printing event April 7 at The Rivet to create commemorative T-shirts. Participants are encouraged to bring their own shirts.

Since its inception, the event has removed more than 6 million pounds of waste from local waterways and surrounding areas.

The cleanup is supported by local municipalities and businesses and is organized in partnership with the Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority and regional watershed partners.

More information and registration details are available through ClearWater Conservancy.