COMMUNITY – City sends out call for Clean the Beach volunteers

More details were released today (Tuesday, April 9, 2024) on the City’s Clean the Beach day.

Set to take place 11 a.m.–2 p.m. on Sunday, April 21, 2023, the event closely aligns with Earth Day and is planned for a time of year with low water levels to support safety for volunteers and to minimize ecological disruption.

Volunteers will collect litter along the shoreline near Riverside Park and Overlander Park. Materials collected will be secured in bags and placed in designated areas to be picked up by City staff.

Although registration is not required, organizers say it would be helpful for planning purposes. Residents interested in participating are asked to register at Kamloops.ca/CleanTheBeach or by phone at 250-828-3518. Registration will close at 9 a.m. on Friday, April 19, 2024.

Rain or shine, volunteers should plan to arrive at Riverside Park by 11 a.m. on April 21. They will receive collection materials, route maps, and instructions on safe handling procedures for items like glass, sharps, or hazardous waste. It is recommended that volunteers wear closed-toed shoes and bring high-visibility vests and/or work gloves if they have them.

Pre-event beach sweeps for sharps and other potentially harmful materials will be conducted by social agencies involved in the Clean Team supportive employment program, ensuring a safe environment for participants.

“Together, we can have a positive impact on our local environment and make our beaches and riverbanks cleaner, safer, and more beautiful for all to enjoy,” said Ty Helgason, the City’s social and community development supervisor.

“Our goal is to have a fun and successful event that we can build on year over year as we expand our shoreline cleanup.”

Volunteers returning to Riverside Park at the end of the cleanup will find a bouncy castle, face painting, live music, and a volunteer BBQ. The event will also feature educational tables on local ecology and the importance of maintaining clean and healthy waterways.

Residents, regardless of volunteer participation, are invited to attend this portion of the event. For more information or to register as a volunteer, visit Kamloops.ca/CleanTheBeach.