September 19, 2023 3:30 p.m.  

Umpqua Watersheds, Native Fish Society and Thrive Umpqua is asking for volunteers to help clean up the shores of the Umpqua River from the headwaters to the sea, during Umpqua River Clean-Up Day on Saturday.

An Umpqua Watersheds release said there is a lot of trash that needs to be removed before the high water comes. This not only cleans up the area, but it also helps keep the ocean clean, protecting wildlife and fish. This year it’s the 39th annual river cleanup.

Residents can take their bag down to the river in their area and pick up any trash. Photos of the river and the trash can be sent to: uq@umpquawatersheds.org. Those who need assistance or are in need of bags, can contact Bob Hoehne at 679-7077.

Contact a coordinator to find out how to help or where the garbage should go after it is picked up. Coordinators for various areas in the Umpqua Valley are listed:

*Oakland/Umpqua: Cheryl Owens at 541-315-5545

*Upper Cow Creek: Marguerite Garrison at 541-837-3429

*Little River: Geoff Niles at 541-496-3886

*South Umpqua: Bob Hoehne at 541-679-7077

*North Umpqua: Brian Peters at 541-530-6782

*Main Umpqua: Alan Bunce at 541-580-4208