Aberjona River (and Other Areas) Cleanup Day Saturday, May 12

Join the volunteer groups in their cleaning efforts on May 12 for the Aberjona River (and other areas) Cleanup Day from 9 a.m. to noon. The Conservation Commission will distribute trash bags and gloves behind the to volunteers, and DPW pick up spots will be at the road intersections and the river.

“We’ve been doing it since 1988. Each year, we select areas around the river to clean up trash and invasive plants. We provide gloves, trash bags. We ask people where long sleeves, pants, durable shoes,” conservation administrator Elaine Vreeland said. “Volunteers should meet behind Town Hall.”

In the past, groups from Churches, high schools and boy scouts have made major impacts in the cleanliness of the river. “Last year, there were 50/60 high school volunteers from the Connect and Commit Program. They were fantastic. We get Boy Scouts, church groups, neighborhood groups,” Vreeland said.

“If you would like to order a pick up spot that is NOT along the Aberjona River, please contact me and we’ll will make the arrangements with the Department of Public Works. We have expanded to other areas in town if they need the attention i. If our neighborhood ponds need work, we will work with them and if anyone wants to organize their own group should contact me,” Vreeland said.

If you have any questions, or need more information, contact Vreeland via e-mail at evreeland@winchester.us, or by phone at (781) 721-7152.

The DPW takes the trash to transfer station at the end of the day.

“In the earlier days, litter was a serious problem than it is now. Now we are going after bittersweet vines under supervision of Conservations Commission Members. If interested, bring your own clippers,” Vreeland said.