The 16th Annual Allegheny Reservoir Cleanup had long been scheduled for May 9 when the coronavirus changed that.

Over the years, the Allegheny Reservoir Cleanup and its cousin, the Allegheny River Cleanup, have made a real difference in the Allegheny Reservoir and River, both ecologically and making these sites more beautiful for those who hike, swim, canoe, kayak, boat and otherwise enjoy these wonderful sites.

These cleanups and hundreds like them around the country demonstrate how eager people are to contribute to a cleaner, healthier, and more beautiful environment, so the planners wanted to find another way.

They know that where people have been able to get outside and exercise, their appreciation for the wonders of nature where we find them have only increased, according to organizer David Snyder.

“So, we decided to create a new place where people could share their accomplishments and see how each little bit adds up,” he said.

While current practices include social distancing and skipping community events, this is an opportunity to do a solo or household litter pick up.

While this shouldn’t include larger events or projects at public places or parks that would need prior approval, he said, this is a great time to practice the poetry of “Let everyone sweep in front of his own door, and the whole world will be clean.” — Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

“The upcoming warmer temperatures would make for a perfect time to grab a trash bag fill a bag with the trash that you see,” said Snyder. “You could also take a bag (or bags!) with you as you head out the door towards your favorite trail, lake, creek, or reservoir.

“Tell us about it at http://www.mylocalcleanup.com.”