Scioto Sweep Annual River Cleanup 2025

Join us on Sunday, September 21st to clean up the Scioto River at the annual Scioto Sweep! We will have all the supplies you need including gloves, trash bags, and litter grabbers thanks to Keep Columbus Beautiful. There will be 3 different groups starting at various locations. The cleanup locations are Scioto Audubon Metro Park, starting at Grange Audubon or the boat ramp, and behind the Fire Station. Note the starting address when you choose a shift! Be sure to wear closed-toe shoes. You may also want long pants if you plan to walk into the brush. 

This event is in collaboration with Scioto Fest by Columbus & Franklin County Metro Parks, Scioto Watershed Action Group, Green Columbus, and Keep Columbus Beautiful.

Donuts and coffee will be available to enjoy at all sites during registration beginning at 10am

Safety:

Trash pickup safety: Do not pick up needles. Alert the site host right away if you find one. Do not pick up trash that is over 20 pounds. Do not pick up sharp objects and place them in a bag with the other trash, will rip bags and put all the waste picked up back in the ground/river. Avoid picking up leaky batteries or chemical/toxic contaminants. Again, notify team leads. 

From the River safety Page 13, American Rivers Cleanups: Be aware of slipping hazards, rocks sticks logs and even sand can be very slippery in waterways. You may step on trash that incidentally causes a fall. Watch where you place your feet and be careful when walking.