In recognition of Earth Day on April 22, Northumberland County is encouraging residents to take part in the 16th annual Mayors’ Keep the County Clean Challenge!
The challenge is a week-long county-wide litter clean-up event, delivered in partnership with local municipalities. This friendly competition invites residents to register with their local municipality to participate in cleaning up litter and waste in their communities, including roadsides, parks and trails.
The municipalities with the highest proportional representation of volunteers and the most litter collected per volunteer, will take home trophies to celebrate their contributions.
“This annual event is about more than just removing trash—it’s about coming together, taking ownership of our shared spaces, and showing respect for one another,” notes County Warden Bob Crate. “When we all do our part to keep our neighbourhoods clean, we help create a healthier, safer, and more welcoming Northumberland for everyone.”
The Keep the County Clean event runs this year from April 20 to 25. Volunteers that register with their local municipality will receive bags, gloves and safety vests for their collection efforts.
Nearly 28,000 volunteers have pitched in to remove litter across Northumberland since the inaugural week-long event in 2009, collecting over 200,000 kg of waste. Last year, the Town of Cobourg took home the prize for ‘Highest Proportional Volunteers’, while the Township of Cramahe held the title of ‘Hardest Working Volunteers’ based on volume of waste collected.
About Earth Day
Earth Day is celebrated annually around the world on April 22. This day of recognition aims to bring attention to environmental challenges and the impacts of climate change on both a global and local scale.
Northumberland County is committed to taking steps to preserve our distinct and stunning natural resources and improve sustainability.
How to register
For more information about Earth Day, including registration details to participate in the Mayors’ Keep the County Clean Challenge, visit Northumberland.ca/EarthDay.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
