More Than 4,000 Pounds of Trash Removed From the Kalamazoo River
Written by Brad De Young
Michigan Watershed Watch
Published September 23, 2026
Volunteers Show What River Stewardship Looks Like
More than 250 volunteers came together this summer to help clean up approximately 10 miles of the Kalamazoo River, removing more than 4,000 pounds of trash and debris from the river and surrounding waterways.
The third annual Kalamazoo River Cleanup and Celebration took place June 20, with volunteers working along riverbanks, creeks, trails and parks from Comstock Township to D Avenue. Canoe and kayak crews also took to the water to remove debris directly from the river.
This is what watershed stewardship looks like.
It isn’t always glamorous. Sometimes protecting our rivers means getting wet, crawling through brush, pulling garbage from the shoreline and hauling heavy debris back to shore. But every piece of trash removed is one less piece of debris left in the river.
Paddlers Have a Unique Perspective
Kayakers and canoeists see Michigan’s waterways from a perspective that many people never experience. We travel through areas that can be difficult to reach from roads and trails, and we see firsthand the condition of riverbanks, islands, tributaries and backwaters.
That perspective comes with an opportunity to help.
River cleanup projects demonstrate that paddlers aren’t simply recreational users of Michigan’s waterways. We can also be some of their most active stewards.
The Kalamazoo cleanup brought together 24 nonprofit organizations, along with businesses, foundations, individuals and community partners. Organizers are already planning for 2027 and hope to expand volunteer participation, youth and family involvement, environmental education and year-round stewardship.
4,000 Pounds Is More Than a Number
Four thousand pounds of trash is a remarkable amount of material to remove from a river.
But the number represents more than the weight of the debris.
It represents hundreds of people deciding that their river is worth their time and effort.
It represents paddlers getting out on the water and doing more than simply passing through.
And it represents a community recognizing that protecting a watershed is something we all have a role in.
Michigan has an incredible network of rivers, streams and lakes. If we want those waterways to remain places where people can paddle, fish, hike, explore and enjoy the outdoors for generations to come, stewardship has to be part of the culture.
Get Involved
Michigan Watershed Watch encourages people to become active participants in protecting Michigan’s waterways.
You don’t have to organize a massive cleanup to make a difference. Pick up trash when you’re paddling. Participate in a local river cleanup. Support organizations working to protect watersheds. Teach young people to respect the water.
And when you see a river that needs help, don’t assume someone else will take care of it.
The Kalamazoo River cleanup is proof of what can happen when people come together.
More than 4,000 pounds of trash removed. More than 250 volunteers. Ten miles of river. One community working together for its watershed.
That’s stewardship in action.
West Michigan Kayaking Club
The West Michigan Kayaking Club is a Grand Rapids-based community of paddlers and outdoor adventurers who explore Michigan’s rivers and natural areas throughout the year. Stewardship and responsible use of our waterways are an important part of enjoying the places we paddle.
Learn more about the club at:
Join the community on Facebook:
West Michigan Kayaking Club Facebook Group
Wild Rivers. Rugged Trails. Real Adventure.