Cleaning up the Allegheny River works better when the tributaries that dump water into it are also cleaned.
The Brokenstraw Creek Clean-up, part of the annual Allegheny River Clean-up, will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday at Island Park in Youngsville.
But cleaning the Brokenstraw is a goal all its own.
"The Brokenstraw Creek watershed contains a great diversity of plants and animals, over 100 of which are rare, threatened, or endangered species of concern," Pennsylvania Conservancy Watershed Manager Kylie Maland said. "Several tributaries to Brokenstraw Creek are classified as High Quality Coldwater Fisheries."
"Twenty-two biological diversity areas and one landscape conservation area have been identified within the watershed, making it a conservation priority of the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy," Maland said. "Western Pennsylvania Conservancy is partnering with local organizations and individuals to improve water quality and conserve areas of the watershed. In one such effort, we are recruiting volunteers to assist in cleaning trash from the mainstem of Brokenstraw Creek to improve at least a small portion of the watershed's aesthetics."
Those who would like to participate in the effort should meet at Island Park. With the water level low, the clean-up crews will wade down the creek. "Volunteers are encouraged to wear hip or chest waders, however, volunteers are also needed on land to clean up the banks and help sort recyclables," Maland said. "Bags and gloves will be provided, and all volunteers will receive a free commemorative water bottle for assisting with this effort."
Maland asks those who would like to volunteer contact her at kmaland@paconserve.org or 814-776-1114.