Volunteers needed for this landmark, river-wide cleanup effort in memory of Jane Goodall

MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY — Celebrating 45 years of environmental impact and in memory of Jane Goodall, Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) has teamed up with two conservation partners to conduct their first-ever Passaic River-wide cleanup. On Saturday, May 9, 2026, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM, GSWA (the official Passaic River Waterkeeper Alliance Affiliate), Roots & Shoots New Jersey (a chapter of Jane Goodall’s community-based youth organization), and the AmeriCorps New Jersey Watershed Ambassadors will host a historic, end-to-end Passaic River cleanup. The event will be followed by a free Community Picnic. Volunteers are encouraged to register for this important community event at GreatSwamp.org.

“Protecting a watershed is a collaborative effort,” said Bill Kibler, Executive Director of GSWA. “By partnering with the next generation of leaders through Roots & Shoots and the dedicated service of AmeriCorps, we are ensuring that the stewardship we started 45 years ago continues to grow in strength and scope.”

The partners have identified several local parks and dry land sites along the Passaic River in need of trash removal. Volunteers will select their desired location during the registration process. Participants of all ages are welcome to join this effort to address the entire river’s health in a single day.

“When trash collects in the areas along our stream banks, it will eventually make its way into the water, polluting the river and impacting local wildlife. These types of cleanups make a big impact on the health of the river as a whole,” said Sandra LaVigne, GSWA’s Director of Water Quality Programs. “Ending the day with a community picnic allows us to celebrate the volunteers, the partners, and the families who make our mission possible.”

“Roots & Shoots New Jersey is a chapter of Jane Goodall’s community-based youth organization,” said Renee Shalhoub, a committed Roots & Shoots volunteer. “Jane was an inspiration to countless people. She led by example, helping people around the world to engage in their environment in meaningful ways. We hope you will join us in honoring Jane’s legacy at the cleanup and attend the free community picnic!”

Early registration is encouraged to secure a spot at specific cleanup sites, to ensure an accurate headcount for the community picnic. Volunteers may further support the partners by purchasing event t-shirts and more. A portion of the proceeds from the sales of these items will be donated back to the partner organizations while creating a visual show of unity that day. Order deadline is April 16.

To register, and for additional information including a list of all the cleanup hubs and the merchandise order link, please visit GreatSwamp.org.

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About the Great Swamp Watershed Association

Now in its 45^th year, the Great Swamp Watershed Association (GSWA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and improving the water resources of the Passaic River region, from the Great Swamp headwaters to Newark Bay, for present and future generations. Through education, advocacy, science, land preservation, and stewardship, in collaboration with partners, we work to instill in our communities an awareness of water’s effect on health and the beauty of the environment, from source to sea.  The organization educates over 3,000 school children, monitors over 30 stream locations, and holds approximately 40 public events each year.

For more information about the Great Swamp Watershed Association, visit GreatSwamp.org.