Trash is clogging Millstone Township's precious waterways

Greetings. Winter has left us. Spring has arrived. And it sure is a fine time to get outside.

While you're out frolicking in the sun, you might take a gander at the streams around Millstone Township. See how trash is clogging our precious waterways and cluttering on stream banks, poised to enter the water during the next rainstorm.

The AmeriCorps Watershed Ambassador program (www.state.nj.us/dep/watershed mgt/ambassadors_index.htm) and Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association (www.thewatershed.org) are partnering with Millstone Township for the second consecutive year to remedy the obtrusive nature of the utterly distasteful litter with a stream cleanup. Last June 18, bold volunteers filled 57 trash bags with over 400 pounds of garbage, not to mention the gaggle of car tires they rolled out of the streams.

This year, we hope to have an even bigger turnout and make an even bigger impact. We know the task is difficult, but we accept the challenge with the genuine intention of beautifying our streams and improving our water quality.

Whether you're part of an environmental club, a nature center, a scout group or you just like being outdoors, here is an ideal opportunity to come out and make a real difference in the community.

The Millstone Township stream cleanup will be from 9 a.m. to noon April 5. We will meet at the former Millstone municipal building (on the corner of Perrineville and Millstone roads and next to the United Presbyterian Church) before dispersing out to Millstone's dirtiest streams.

Water, gloves, refreshments, T-shirts and trash bags will be provided for our noble volunteers. A mature adult must accompany all minors. Please wear sturdy boots, long sleeves and an anti-litter face. Catch you out at the streams.

Andy White

New Jersey AmeriCorps Watershed Ambassador for

Millstone Township Stony Brook-Millstone Watershed Association