Cahaba River Society Hosts Earth Week Cleanups Across Birmingham Area (Photo Courtesy of Cahaba River Society)
The Cahaba River Society is inviting Birmingham residents to take part in Earth Week Cleanup, happening April 21–26, in honor of Earth Week — a celebration of environmental protection and preservation that dates back to the 1970s.
The event is part of a national effort involving more than 550 cities working to advance local climate action. Volunteers will help remove litter and invasive species from the Cahaba River and its tributaries, supporting clean water, native wildlife and healthier communities. The Cahaba is one of the most biodiverse rivers in the United States and a major drinking water source for hundreds of thousands of Alabamians.
Each day of the cleanup will focus on a different county, allowing participants to make a direct impact at their local river access point.
“With nine cleanups across five counties, there’s an opportunity for everyone to make a real difference across the Cahaba River this Earth Week,” said Wil Rainer, field programs manager for the Cahaba River Society. “Whether you’re a student, a coworker or a concerned community member, we hope you’ll join us on the water or along the banks to help protect our river. Every piece of litter removed adds up.”
UAB students are encouraged to participate in the cleanup from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 22 at Oak Mountain State Park.
The week will culminate in a celebration from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 26 at Cahaba Brewing Co., giving volunteers a chance to reflect on the impact made for local communities, wildlife and the environment.