Jordan River Trail Cleanup Guidelines
Pick a cleanup spot
Find an area of the Jordan River Parkway that’s in need of a cleanup. This could be a section of the trail near your neighborhood or office. #LoveYourWatershed by clearing storm drains, curbs and gutters from trash and organic matter anywhere in the valley before it enters storm drains and eventually ends up in the Jordan River. For an ongoing commitment adopt a storm drain!
Plan how to dispose of the trash and recycling
If you’re near a trailhead, this can be as easy as figuring out where the public trash and recycling cans are located.
If you’re cleaning an area without public trash receptacles, be ready to haul trash bags with personal trucks or trailers.
Gather your supplies
- Cleanups usually don’t require much: some sturdy trash bags, work gloves, shovels, brooms and maybe some grabber tools if you have them. It’s a good idea to have a small first-aid kit on hand and a water cooler to refill water bottles.
- Wear a long-sleeve shirt, pants and closed-toe shoes or boots to help protect from any hazards as well as a sun hat.
- Don’t forget a reusable water bottle and snacks so you can stay hydrated and properly fueled.
During your cleanup
- Stay safe. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid steep banks or other trail hazards.
- Remember not to gather on or block the trail. Cyclists and other trail users may not see you in time to stop and avoid a crash.
- Always wear cleanup gloves with the nitrile (plastic) side on your palm. Place sharp objects like glass shards in a solid container, like a glass jar, and dispose of them safely with your trash.
- Don’t pick up any “sharps” or syringes without a proper container. A suitable sharps container can be a sturdy plastic or glass bottle with a lid that you can’t collapse with your hand. A Gatorade type bottle is good but not a flimsy water bottle.
- Don’t disturb piles of personal belongings or enter areas where people may be camping.
