Volunteers Needed For Stream Cleanup Hosted By Raritan Headwaters

The Raritan Headwaters Association (RHA) will host its 36th annual Stream Cleanup on Saturday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon. This event mobilizes more than 1,200 volunteers to remove trash from around 70 sites near rivers, streams, lakes, and reservoirs across the upper Raritan River watershed.

Online volunteer registration for the cleanup opens on Sunday, March 1. Interested individuals can sign up or learn more by visiting raritanheadwaters.org/streamcleanup.

Trash along local rivers and streams harms water quality, wildlife, and human health. Last year, volunteers collected more than 12 tons of trash and recyclables.

"When over a thousand volunteers pitch in, it’s amazing how much of a difference those three hours can make," said Mara Tippett, RHA’s executive director. "As the old saying goes, many hands make light work. We’re very grateful to the members of our community who show up to help create a cleaner and healthier environment."

Rachel Garcia, RHA Water Resources Associate, added that the headwaters region — the network of streams and tributaries where the Raritan River originates — supplies drinking water for 1.8 million New Jerseyans.

“The impact of Stream Cleanup on watershed health, the health of organisms, and human health is immeasurable for us,” said Garcia.

Plastic is the most common type of litter collected, including bottles, bags, and wrappers.

In 2025, volunteers found 15,807 pieces of plastic debris. Plastic debris in waterways can leach chemicals into drinking water and break down into microplastics, which can contaminate water supplies. It also harms aquatic species and wildlife, as animals can ingest plastic or become entangled in it.

Other items include metal cans, glass bottles, tires, and construction materials.

Isabel Corbin, a Peapack-Gladstone Environmental Commission member, described the event as a multi-generational activity that builds community stewardship.

"It’s a wonderful way to see old friends from the community and meet new people," said Corbin.

The cleanup will proceed rain or shine. Volunteers will receive gloves and bags. While entering waterways is not required, water-resistant footwear is recommended due to potentially muddy sites. Participants will help record the amount and type of litter collected.

Local individuals and businesses can also sponsor a stream site to help cover the RHA's costs. More information on sponsorship is available at raritanheadwaters.org/streamcleanup or by contacting Kate Arnao at karnao@raritanheadwaters.org.