There are no shortages of news stories about the topic of water these days, whether it be stormwater management to water rights as it relates to the First Nations’ people concerns. Even locally in a place named after the mighty Grand River that snakes 252 miles across Michigan, Grand Rapids is continuing its push to reactivate the water for a future restoration of our famed rapids (presently missing).
Part of our community’s evolution around water issues and its importance is the many events locally that we host here that present an opportunity for us to learn and grow as we interact with it.
One such event is the brainchild of former Mayor Heartwell and the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC) whose annual Mayors’ Grand River Cleanup celebrates its 14th year.
Join fellow citizens, as well as area businesses, organizations, and church groups who descend upon the Sixth Street Bridge Park at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 9 as they prepare to embark on a 40-mile path (broken up into manageable segments) along the Grand River.
The event runs until 1 p.m. where all volunteers of this event will be treated to a light lunch, Founders beer (21 and over), and the music of Dunegrass.
This ever-growing crowd of volunteers will bring Grand Rapids, Grandville, Walker, Wyoming and Plainfield township together as these river cities set an example to others about the power of communities coming together to achieve great things.
In addition, because trash sometimes makes its way via stormwater drains to the Grand River, this year WMEAC will be working within a SE neighborhood of Grand Rapids to pick up trash that is at risk for entering the river.
You might think the best of our hot weather is behind us but with events like this it is easy to keep warm when you see the throngs who show up to ensure our river is getting healthier with each act to preserve it is enacted here.
More Info