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

Event is set for March 7, registration closes March 5

Volunteers are needed to join Pinellas County Environmental Management and Keep Pinellas Beautiful for a spring cleanup event at Cross Bayou Canal and Joe’s Creek on Saturday, March 7, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Part of the Great American Cleanup, the event involves trash and debris removal in Cross Bayou Canal and Joe’s Creek. Volunteers can bring their own canoe or kayak, 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.

Volunteers: register here by March 5.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m. Go to 78th Street N & 70th Avenue N. Enter the gate and follow the signs. Launching is from Pinellas County property. A water truck is provided to clean 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. The contact for prospective sponsors is Ryan Ryczek at (727) 464-4462 or email watershed@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.