For the second straight year, the North Haven Conservation Commission (NHCC) annual Earth Day event could not be held due to COVID-19. While the community event with its exhibits and demonstrations couldn’t be held this year, the NHCC wanted to commemorate Earth Day and will host its first town-wide cleanup on Saturday, April 17 (rain date Saturday, April 24) from 9 to 11 a.m.

“This year we now turned to a local effort—rid North Haven of its litter,” said Fran Notaro of the NHCC. “It takes a village. North Haven residents and businesses need to do their part making our town a cleaner environment.”

Notaro noted that while the NHCC is sponsoring the event, there are several groups and organizations that have already committed to aiding in the cleanup, including the North Haven Trail Association, North Have Land Trust, North Haven Garden Club, Peter’s Rock Association, Clean Up North Haven, and more.

Volunteers should report to the North Haven Green by 8:45 a.m. where the NHCC will have a list of locations to be cleaned throughout town, including parks, fields, and trails. Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing and gloves and garbage bags will be provided. After the cleanup, public works will accept bags at the North Haven Recycling Center.

“We expect businesses and residents to pick up litter on their properties and neighborhoods,” said Notaro. “Students earning community service credits will be acknowledged.”

Hugh Davis of the NHCC encourages residents and families to volunteer in the effort. He notes that there are no rules or restrictions in volunteering, though volunteers do need to provide their own transportation.

“I don’t know how many volunteers there will be—hopefully several dozen—and pride, commitment to community, and more will hopefully appeal to residents,” said Davis. “The goal is to focus attention on the need to protect the environment from discarded plastic, etc. and to improve the town’s appearance.”

For info, email hughd41@gmail.com.