Volunteers, sponsors sought for Cross Bayou/Joe’s Creek Cleanup

Volunteers are needed to join Pinellas County Environmental Management and Keep Pinellas Beautiful in a cleanup event at Cross Bayou Canal and Joe’s Creek on Saturday, Nov. 8, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Part of the Intercoastal Cleanup Campaign, the event involves removal of trash and debris in and along Cross Bayou Canal and Joe’s Creek. Volunteers wanting to help on the water can bring their own watercraft or reserve a canoe when registering (while supplies last). Life jackets are required and will be provided to those borrowing a canoe. Volunteers must be 18 or over and paddleboards are not permitted.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m. at the Pinellas County property at the intersection of 78th Street North and 70th Avenue North near Crash Champions Collision Repair on Park Boulevard. Enter the gate and follow signs. A water truck will be available for volunteers to clean their watercraft following the event. Lunch and a free raffle drawing will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen and bring a chair or towel to sit on. Trash grabbers, bags, gloves and drinking water will be provided.

Pinellas County is also recruiting sponsors for this event. Interested parties can contact Ryan Ryczek at (727) 464-4462 or at rryczek@pinellas.gov. Participation can include donating items or funds to purchase items for the free volunteer appreciation raffle, and opportunities for a display table at the event to promote your organization. Volunteers must register by Nov. 6 with Pinellas County Environmental Management or under the events tab at Facebook.com/PinellasEnviroNews.