We can’t always neatly categorize every single piece of marine debris that volunteers remove, but this shows some of the most common finds in our Miscellaneous category!

Clean Your Streams is a watershed cleanup initiative where volunteers collect trash and document their findings. It stands as Ohio’s largest cleanup event, contributing valuable marine debris data to the International Coastal Cleanup (ICC) database. Volunteers make a significant impact across various watersheds in our region, including the Ottawa River, Swan Creek, Maumee River, and the tributaries of Maumee Bay. Over the course of 28 years, more than 16,880 volunteers have helped remove around 407,775 pounds of marine debris.

This year, as in previous years, the most commonly collected items from Northwest Ohio’s waterways were #1 plastic bottles, #2 food wrappers, and #3 cigarette butts. Among the more unusual finds were a message in a vintage 7 Up bottle from over 50 years ago, a 30-pound tangle of fishing line and lures, and more than 600 golf balls from the former golf course in Bowling Green.

Total Impact of Remote and In-Person Kickoffs

• Volunteers: 649
• Sites cleaned: 49
• Pounds of marine debris removed: 10,175
• River miles: 21

Be sure to check out our complete CYS 28 Fact Sheet and infographic for additional photos and insights!

Plan Your Menu Wisely
• Use local and seasonal produce to reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
• Prepare proper portions to minimize food waste.

Choose Eco-Friendly Entrees
• Opt for meat from a local farm that practices sustainable farming. Look for organic or free-range options.

Set a Plan for Waste Reduction
• Set up a compost bin for food scraps and leftovers. This reduces landfill waste and enriches your garden soil.
• Plan how to use leftovers creatively. Share with guests or turn them into new meals.

Utilize Sustainable Decor
• Use natural seasonal items like pumpkins, gourds, seasonal dried fruits, pinecones, or autumn leaves for decoration. After the holiday, compost them or use them in your garden.
• Avoid single-use decorations and opt for items you can use year after year.

Eco-Conscious Tableware
• Use real plates, utensils, and cloth napkins instead of disposable options.
• If disposables are necessary, look for compostable or biodegradable options.

Transportation Choices
• Share rides with family and friends to reduce emissions. Consider public transportation if available.
• If travel isn’t feasible, hosting a virtual gathering is an option!

Support Local Businesses
• Purchase items from local farmers’ markets or food co-ops to support local economies 

By incorporating these practices, you can enjoy a festive holiday season while minimizing your environmental impact. It’s a great way to show gratitude for the planet while sharing the holiday spirit!

Through our CYS 365 program, you can volunteer with us to create clearer, cleaner waterways year-round!

Every piece of litter you pick up helps protect our local wildlife, beautify our parks, and foster a cleaner environment for everyone. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with neighbors and enjoy the crisp autumn air!

Fall Clean-Up Advantages:

• Weather: Enjoy cooler temperatures that make it comfortable to work outside for longer periods.
• Foliage: Falling leaves make litter more visible against the bare ground, making it easier to spot and collect.
• Lower Bug Activity: Fewer insects in the fall can create a more pleasant experience compared to summer months.
• Community Spirit: The season often inspires higher volunteer turnout and community involvement.

While each season has its challenges, fall clean-ups certainly offer some unique benefits!

You can choose to participate in staff-led clean-ups or organize one on your own. Select your own date, time, and location for the clean-up, or reach out to PCS staff for suggestions if you need assistance. Whether you join a group or tackle a spot solo, your efforts truly matter!

PCS will provide all necessary clean-up materials, including gloves, trash bags, data cards, and grabbers, ensuring you have everything you need to make a difference.

Gather your family, friends, or colleagues, and let’s work together to make our waterways cleaner and our community shine this fall!

Fill out the CYS 365 Interest Form to connect with a PCS staff member and organize your clean-up today!

We’re excited to invite you to our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on December 5th!

This is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our achievements from the past year, honor the recipient of our Annual Environmental Stewardship and Involvement Award, celebrate the winners of the Clean Your Streams Challenges, and conduct essential organizational business, including the election of our Board of Directors.

The meeting will take place at W.W. Knight Preserve in Perrysburg. Doors will open at 5:00 PM for dinner catered by Schlotzskys, refreshments, and networking. The official meeting will kick off at 6:00 PM.

If you’re interested in contributing your expertise and vision by joining our Board of Directors, please reach out to us at [email protected]. Nominations for the Board will also be accepted during the meeting. Additionally, if you’d like to have a say in the Board elections and aren’t yet a general member of PCS, consider donating today to become a member.

We look forward to seeing you there!