Reno residents and volunteers from surrounding neighborhoods came together Saturday for the annual Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful (KTMB) River Cleanup, a community‑driven effort to protect the Truckee River watershed. More than 500 participants spread across 26 sites, from riverbanks to neighborhood parks, demonstrating the power of local stewardship.
Massive trash removal and habitat work
Volunteers lifted over 60 tons of litter, including roughly 2,500 pounds pulled directly from the river’s water. The cleanup also targeted invasive weeds and green waste, extracting more than 55.5 tons of vegetation that can choke native plants and degrade water quality.
Infrastructure improvements and beautification
In addition to trash removal, teams stenciled 201 storm drains with clear signage to discourage dumping and to remind motorists of proper disposal practices. The project also featured a modest but meaningful greening effort: seven new trees were planted, 171 shrubs and other native plants were installed, and 115 yards of mulch were spread throughout parks to improve soil health and reduce erosion.
Why the effort matters
The Truckee River is a vital water source for Washoe County and a beloved recreation corridor for anglers, hikers and families. By keeping the river clean, volunteers help preserve water quality, protect wildlife habitats, and maintain the natural beauty that draws tourists and supports local businesses. The removal of hazardous items also reduces the risk of injury to children and pets who enjoy the river’s banks.
Community partnership and future plans
KTMB, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental stewardship, coordinated the event with the City of Reno’s Parks and Recreation Department, local schools, churches, and civic groups. Organizers emphasized that the success of the cleanup relies on continued community involvement and education about responsible waste disposal.
“Our volunteers showed that when we work together, we can make a real difference for our river and our neighborhoods,” said KTMB volunteer coordinator Sarah Martinez. “We encourage everyone to stay engaged throughout the year, whether it’s through additional clean‑up days, planting projects, or simply picking up litter when they see it.”
How to get involved
Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful plans additional clean‑up events later this year and invites new volunteers to sign up through its website or social‑media channels. Residents can also support the organization by donating supplies, such as gloves, trash bags, and mulch, or by sponsoring a tree‑planting project in their local park.
The collective effort on Saturday underscores the strong sense of responsibility that many Reno families feel toward their environment—a testament to the community’s commitment to preserving the natural resources that sustain both faith‑filled families and the broader region.
Original reporting: 2news.com — read the source article.
