Clean the Bay Day Scheduled for Saturday, June 7

Registration is now open for the annual Clean the Bay Day, Virginia’s largest volunteer litter cleanup event, scheduled across Virginia for Saturday, June 7.

Organized by the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), this year’s litter removal will play a critical role in mitigating the pervasive threat of microplastics and other pollution to the Chesapeake Bay. Litter like plastic bottles and cups break down into microplastics and wash into the Bay.

Since 1989, Clean the Bay Day has united thousands of Virginians on the first Saturday of June to clear parks, streams, beaches, and trails of harmful debris. This year, CBF and its partners are planning to host over 200 cleanup sites throughout Virginia, spanning Northern Virginia, the Shenandoah Valley, Hampton Roads, the Eastern Shore, and significantly expanded efforts in the Richmond area.

To date, Clean the Bay Day has mobilized over 170,000 volunteers who have successfully removed approximately 7 million pounds of debris from our land and waterways.

“For over three decades, Clean the Bay Day has been a powerful testament to the collective impact of community action,” said CBF Grassroots Coordinator Lisa Renee Jennings. “This year, we are highlighting the urgent need to address microplastic pollution and the harmful toxins that litter introduces into our waterways and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. Every piece of trash removed is a step towards a healthier ecosystem.”

This year, the Richmond area will feature an increased commitment to pollution cleanup with seven dedicated sites, a testament to the growing awareness and concern for the health of local waterways that feed into the Bay.

Volunteers in Richmond and across Virginia will directly contribute to reducing the flow of plastic particles and other pollutants that threaten aquatic life and water quality. The most commonly collected items continue to be plastics, glass, aluminum, and cigarette butts.

These materials, particularly plastics, break down into harmful microplastics that persist in the environment, are ingested by wildlife, and can even enter the human food chain. Additionally, discarded items can leach toxins into the soil and water, further degrading the health of the Chesapeake Bay.

“Participating in Clean the Bay Day is a tangible way for individuals, families, and organizations to make a real difference in the health of our environment,” said Jennings.

This year’s Clean the Bay Day will run from 9AM- 12PM and welcomes participants of all ages and affiliations.