GET TRASHED DELAWARE RIVER CLEAN UP

On August 17th, 2024, we joined a passionate group of dedicated volunteers at the Delaware River Club for the annual Get Trashed River Clean-Up. This year marked my first time participating, and I was struck by how much this event has grown since its inception eight years ago, thanks to the tireless work of Chris Calabrese, who has organized it from the start. There’s something incredibly special about seeing a community come together, united by a shared love for the river and a commitment to its well-being.

For many of us, the Delaware River holds a deep personal connection. Having grown up along its banks, I’ve spent years working on its conservation through roles with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and Friends of the Upper Delaware River. The Delaware is more than just a river—it’s a lifeline for local communities, providing recreation, supporting wildlife, and fueling the local economy. Every moment spent caring for its waters feels like a small step in preserving a legacy for future generations.

Why the Delaware River Matters

The Delaware River is the longest free-flowing, undammed river on the East Coast, stretching 330 miles from the Catskills in New York down to the Delaware Bay. It is home to an array of iconic species like striped bass, shad, and even the endangered sturgeon. Its West Branch, in particular, is renowned for its cold-water fishery, primarily known for its thriving trout population. Anglers from all over come to fish these waters, and the trout fishery alone generates significant revenue for the local economy, supporting businesses from fly shops to lodges and restaurants.

Beyond its economic impact, the Delaware plays a crucial ecological role. The river’s health is essential to maintaining local biodiversity, as it provides critical habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife. Protecting the river’s water quality and natural resources isn’t just about keeping it pristine—it’s about ensuring the survival of countless species that rely on its waters.

The Importance of Clean-Ups

While some may view manual trash removal as a small-scale solution, it can actually make a significant impact on the environment. Every year, we remove tires, plastic waste, and other debris from the river, which aren’t just unsightly—they’re often highly toxic. Plastic breaks down into microplastics that contaminate the water and are consumed by fish and wildlife, working its way up the food chain. This can eventually harm not just aquatic life, but even humans.

Tires, in particular, pose a serious threat. They contain chemicals like 6PPD (N-(1,3-dimethylbutyl)-N'-phenyl-p-phenylenediamine), designed to prevent the rubber from breaking down. However, when 6PPD reacts with ozone, it forms 6PPD-quinone, a substance linked to significant fish kills. By removing these tires, we’re preventing the release of toxic chemicals that could harm fish populations for years.

Each tire or piece of plastic removed from the river is a small but crucial victory. Over time, these efforts help protect water quality, safeguard wildlife, and create a healthier ecosystem for everyone who depends on the river. It's a reminder that even small, consistent actions can lead to meaningful change.

Local guides Sean Wittman and Brendan Ruch.

The Excitement of the Clean-Up

Excitement surged as we launched our kayaks, canoes, and drift boats onto the water, ready for a day of hard work—and a bit of fun. The river was calm in the early morning light, but it didn’t take long before we began to notice just how much debris was scattered throughout the water. Tires—dozens of them—were everywhere, especially in areas near the highway where they had washed into the river from blown-out semis and tractor-trailers.

As we paddled along, the organizers threw in a playful twist: painted rubber ducks were hidden along the river. If you found one, you earned a prize from one of the event’s generous sponsors, which added an element of friendly competition to the day. It was a great way to lighten the mood amidst the more serious work of trash collection.

Some of the strangest finds of the day included creepy fiberglass dolls, an entire car frame, and even a 250-pound section of railroad track. These bizarre discoveries served as stark reminders of just how much junk ends up in our rivers. By the end of the day, we had collected over 30 tires, along with large items like barrels of insulation and car mufflers. The volunteers worked tirelessly, filling an entire dumpster and two trailers with trash.

We owe a special thanks to the local guides and boat owners who brought out their drift boats. These boats were essential for navigating the river and hauling out heavy debris, and their owners went above and beyond by sacrificing the wear and tear on their fiberglass trims in the name of keeping the river clean.

The Community Atmosphere

After hours of hauling trash and cleaning the river, we returned to the Delaware River Club for a well-deserved pig roast. The atmosphere was electric—people mingled, shared stories, and enjoyed the warmth of community over great food, drinks, and live entertainment. Events like these remind us that conservation work is not just about cleaning up a river; it’s about building connections and fostering a community that cares deeply about the environment.

We couldn’t have pulled off such a successful event without the incredible support of our sponsors, including Bajio, West Kill Brewing, Dette Flies, Simms Fishing Products, and Breeo Smokeless Firepits. These companies provided not only prizes but also helped with post-clean-up celebrations, showing that they, too, are invested in the health of our waterways. Pig Farm Ink, the event’s creators, deserve a huge shout-out for organizing such a unique and impactful event.

Chris Calabrese and Jeff White of the Delaware River Club worked tirelessly to make this clean-up happen, and their dedication paid off. This year’s Get Trashed saw the largest turnout in its eight-year history, a testament to how much this event has grown and how many people are eager to play a role in protecting the Delaware River.

Looking Forward

As the day came to an end, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment and hope for the future. The Delaware River is a cherished resource, and events like Get Trashed are crucial in maintaining its health for future generations. It was incredible to see so many people come together for a common cause, and we’re already looking forward to next year’s clean-up.

If you’ve never participated in a clean-up event before, consider joining us next time. Whether you’re an angler, a conservationist, or just someone who loves the outdoors, there’s a role for everyone in protecting the places we love. Here’s to many more successful clean-ups and a cleaner, healthier Delaware River.