Cape Girardeau, MO - Team up with the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) and Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department for this year’s Bashin’ Trash litter clean-up event set for 9 a.m. on April 22 at Cape LaCroix Creek.

Advance registration is required and can be completed online at https://mdc-event-web.s3licensing.com/Event/EventDetails/190888. Register by April 7 to receive a free lunch and t-shirt the day of the event. All ages are welcome.

MDC Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center Naturalist Angela Pierce said tires, washing machines, and similar items have been pulled out of Cape LaCroix Creek in Cape Girardeau during past clean-up events. But the items have progressively gotten smaller over the years, which she said is proof “we’re making a real difference.”

“Bashin’ Trash is part of the city’s Friends of the Park Day,” Pierce said. “It’s an excellent opportunity for citizens, youth groups, and scout groups to give back to their community.”

In 2022, she said 127 volunteers collected 52 bags of litter in just under two hours.

“This creek runs along a portion of our recreational trail throughout the city,” Pierce said. “It’s important to put in the effort needed to keep it as a pristine creek for our own use, and for the wildlife within the city that need it.”

Participants are to meet at 9 a.m. on April 22 at the 4-H Shelter in Arena Park to divide and conquer the area. Trash bags and gloves will be provided.

If you are having difficulty registering online, contact the Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center by calling (573) 290-5218. Questions can be emailed to MDC Naturalist Angela Pierce at [email protected].