Roll Up Your Sleeves: Broome County’s 40th Riverbank Cleanup Expands to Owego and Needs You

There are plenty of ways to spend a Saturday morning in October, but this one comes with an immediate payoff. You get outside, help clean up the local spots where we fish, walk, and kayak, and leave the Southern Tier a little better than you found it.

The Broome County Riverbank Cleanup is celebrating its 40th anniversary on Saturday, October 17, and volunteers are needed. Running from 8 a.m. until noon, this year's event features cleanup locations across Broome County, plus four new sites in Owego.

Whether you are an individual, family, business, or community organization, everyone is welcome to pitch in. Advance registration is required by Monday, October 12 through the Broome County Environmental Management Council Riverbank Cleanup page.

Impact of the Broome County Riverbank Cleanup: 40 Years of Cleaner Waterways

Organized annually by the Broome County Environmental Management Council alongside the Broome Tioga Stormwater Coalition, this initiative has pulled tons of trash and debris from our local waterways over four decades. While stream cleanup is not always glamorous, it makes a direct, lasting difference for the rivers running through our neighborhoods.

Never volunteered before? The Environmental Management Council makes it simple. They supply basic equipment, help you select a designated cleanup location, and handle all trash removal after the event.

2026 Riverbank Cleanup Expansion: New Sites Added in Owego

In partnership with Tioga County, this year’s effort expands across county lines for the first time. Adding four new locations in Owego gives even more Southern Tier residents a convenient place to get involved. Grab a few friends, bring the family, or sign up with your local group.

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How to Register for the Broome County Riverbank Cleanup

Registration closes on Monday, October 12. You can sign up as an individual or register a group directly on the Broome County Riverbank Cleanup portal.

For questions or assistance with site selection, contact the Environmental Management Council at 607-778-8924 or email emcbroomecounty@gmail.com.