Experience Challenge # 3- Partners In Parks

I dog walk about 5 times a week along this beautiful trail that runs along a meandering river. Since I’ve been using the trail starting a year ago I’ve noticed the absurd about of garbage around the trail. The park is home to tons of different flora and fauna. I’ve seen everything from rabbits, beavers, coyotes, snakes, stokes and birds ranging from eagles to woodpeckers and everything in between. It’s a stunning area brimming with wildlife and it really makes me angry to see how people carelessly litter every day. It could be anything, travel cups, chip bags to tons of dog crap in little plastic baggies thrown into the bush. I usually bring an extra poop bag with me and pick up some of the litter as I go for my walk. There are no garbage cans in the area so I have to bring it all the way back home.

Today I called in to see if we could get a garbage can put in place and found out there is a volunteer position as a garbage bin keeper. I am provided with the bin, bags and cleaning tools. All I have to do it push the bin to the curb during the collection and replace the bag. Easy! I was overjoyed to hear that it was that simple. I’ve filed all my paperwork and now just have to go through a CRC before they hand over the equipment. Someone from the city is supposed to come out and help me pick the best spot for the bin.

I’m excited. Hopefully others will start throwing their trash in the can and not just toss it in the parkland. This land is home to more than just you or I. Let’s keep it clean!