The Cahaba River Society (CRS) invites community members from the Black Belt to make a difference in one of the most biodiverse rivers in the nation by participating in the annual CRS Earth Week Cleanup, held April 21-25, 2025. This week-long initiative will focus on removing litter and invasive species from the Cahaba River’s channel, banks, and tributaries, ensuring a cleaner, healthier waterway for both wildlife and people.
There will be a cleanup event for Perry County today, Thursday, April 24, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Perry Lakes Park. Volunteers will have the option of walking the banks of the river or paddling along it in a canoe as part of the cleanup detail. Mom’s Basement in Birmingham is sponsoring the Perry Lakes event.
Cleanups will be held in a different county each day along the Cahaba’s 190- mile stretch, tackling pollution and invasive species to support native habitats and reduce litter in the primary drinking water source of over 350,000 Alabamians. Volunteers will have the opportunity to steward river segments on foot or by canoe while learning firsthand about the Cahaba’s ecological significance and the conservation efforts of CRS and its partners.
“With nine cleanups across five counties, there’s an opportunity for everyone to make a real difference across the Cahaba River this Earth Week,” says Wil Rainer, Field Programs Manager. “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.”
Last year’s clean-up was a resounding success, with 227 volunteers removing over 6,000 pounds of debris from the Cahaba River. This year, CRS hopes to build on that momentum and engage even more community members. Those unable to attend a scheduled cleanup can still participate by using satellite cleanup supply boxes placed throughout the watershed during Earth Week.
The event will conclude with a celebration and awards ceremony at Cahaba Brewing Company on Saturday, April 26, to honor the contributions of volunteers and partners.
There will be paddling and walking options at most of the cleanup events. Volunteers of all ages are welcome. To sign up or learn more, visit cahabariversociety.org or contact volunteer@cahabariversociety.org.
About Cahaba River Society:
Cahaba River Society (CRS) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring the Cahaba River watershed and its rich diversity of life. The Cahaba is one of the most biodiverse rivers in North America and is a significant source of drinking water for the Birmingham area. Through education, recreation, and stewardship, CRS works to ensure this beautiful and vital natural resource can be enjoyed for generations to come.
To learn more about CRS and how you can get involved, visit www.cahabariversociety.org.
