Work hard, play hard!
By: Val Thorpe – GSWA Chief Operating Officer
Bugs, high heat, and humidity were no match for this determined group of volunteers who mucked through swampy conditions to collect trash along Camp Lane in Fairfield, which butts up against the Passaic River. Organized by Sandra LaVigne, GSWA’s Director of Water Quality, this was our contribution to “City of Water” Day on July 12th. COW Day is an annual event made up of regional events to celebrate our local waterways, supported by the Waterfront Alliance, NY/NJ Harbor Estuary Program, and Hudson River Foundation.
Some of the trash at the site was the result of the River frequently flooding. But a lot of it was simply dumped there by humans. Armed with trash bags, pickers, and gloves, approximately 25 individuals, families, and friends used their muscles and ingenuity to traverse the muddy area. Dumped lumber became bridges over otherwise unpassable areas, and teamwork made the dream work to drag out larger items such as tires, furniture, and overloaded trash bags.
Every item removed from this site was one less pollutant which would likely end up in the River. It was exhilarating to see volunteers emerge from the woods holding various items while others cheered them on and marveled in disbelief at their finds. As workers paused to rehydrate and eat some snacks, great conversations naturally occurred and staff was happy to engage and educate. Some of the younger participants were very proud of what they had accomplished and expressed interest in doing more cleanups and even pursuing more environmental education.
Throughout the morning and afternoon, GSWA conducted short “thank you” paddle excursions with the volunteers, providing an opportunity for them to connect with the river they had just worked so hard to protect. Two Montclair University students, both pursuing environmental science degrees, were reluctant to paddle at first. After some convincing, they agreed to go. Their big smiles said it all.
Every volunteer who rolled up their sleeves that day came out because they wanted to do something good. And they surely did. GSWA is extremely grateful to everyone for what we accomplished together. COW Day was a great catalyst to encourage more people to get involved, and advocate for a healthier Passaic River.
Click HERE to see more pictures from the day.
If you haven’t participated in a recent cleanup, please consider joining the next one. You’ll be glad you did! (Click HERE for upcoming stewardship opportunities.)
GSWA would like to thank the Township of Fairfield Public Works Department for hauling away all the trash collected by our staff and volunteers.
So proud of all of you for your hard work and dedication! Val, loved your article. Wish we had the stamina to join you, but our hearts are there! GREAT JOB! Congratulations.
Thank you so much for the kind words and encouragement, Alice and Marty! 💚 Your support fuels our momentum and reminds us why we do this work. It means so much to Val—and to all of us—as we continue striving to protect the watershed we all cherish!