Stronger Together: How the Yuba River Cleanup Builds Community and Protects Our Watershed

Each fall, something extraordinary happens along the banks of the Yuba River and its tributaries. Hundreds of volunteers — from toddlers to retirees, families to fishing clubs — unite for one purpose: to care for the river that runs through the heart of our community. Since 1997, the Yuba River Cleanup has brought people together not just to remove trash, but to build a healthier watershed and a stronger community. 

A Day of Purpose, A Year of Impact 

What began over 25 years ago as a grassroots effort has blossomed into one of the largest single-day volunteer events in the Sierra. More than 14,000 volunteers have participated in the Cleanup, dedicating over 42,000 hours to removing over 135 tons of trash and recycling and restoring habitat across the Yuba watershed.  

But the numbers only tell part of the story. What truly sets the Yuba River Cleanup apart is the sense of connection it fosters — between people, the river, and the future we’re creating together. 

“A Rewarding Experience” 

For Aaron Zettler-Mann, SYRCL Executive Director, the event is deeply personal. “The Cleanup is more important than ever,” he says. “I wish more people understood the lasting damage that even tiny bits of trash—glass, plastic, micro-debris—can do to an ecosystem.” 

Yet for Aaron, the day is also one of joy. “It’s a community bonding experience,” he adds. “I’ve seen families come out together year after year. Watching toddlers, teens, and parents all pitch in—it’s heartening to see that kind of shared commitment.” 

Longtime SYRCL volunteer Marlene Sharon echoes that appreciation for the day’s rewards. “Can’t think of a better way to spend the day than at your favorite river—cleaning and gleaming and appreciating the environment. It’s so very rewarding to pick up and pack out left-behind trash and items. Knowing that you have erased their potential hazards on the river, leaving it clean and pristine for all creatures great and small to enjoy.” 

Volunteer Grace Hoben, who joined last year’s Cleanup, found beauty in even the smallest contributions: “Participating in the Yuba River Cleanup was a meaningful experience for me. Removing graffiti from the rocks felt like a small but important way to help preserve the natural beauty of the river. It was especially rewarding to meet other volunteers who share the same appreciation for the Yuba and its ecosystem. The scenery was as incredible as ever and the staff were friendly, which together made the day both productive and enjoyable.” 

Collective Action, Lifelong Lessons 

This ripple effect of stewardship is echoed by groups like the Gold Country Fly Fishers, who have partnered with SYRCL for over two decades. “The Lower Yuba is our home water,” says volunteer Frank Rinella. “It only makes sense that we protect it. We pick up trash on our regular fishing outings too — it all adds up.” 

That sense of ownership — of personal and collective responsibility — is a powerful byproduct of the Cleanup. It turns volunteers into year-round advocates, and neighbors into collaborators. 

Volunteer Appreciation Party 

Following the Cleanup, all volunteers are invited to celebrate their hard work at the Volunteer Appreciation Party, starting at noon on Saturday, September 20 at a new location: the BBQ Pavilion at Condon Park in Grass Valley. This festive gathering will feature a delicious BBQ lunch from Bill’s Chuckwagon, a lively beer garden, family-friendly games, and a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. It’s a chance to relax, connect with fellow river stewards, and celebrate the collective impact made across the watershed. Lunch is free for all Cleanup participants. Volunteers of all ages are encouraged to join the fun because giving back to the river deserves a celebration! 

Join Your Community 

Whether you’re new to the area or a lifelong local, the Yuba River Cleanup is your chance to connect: to the river, to your neighbors, and to the mission of keeping this watershed wild and beautiful. 

Volunteering is simple, and the impact is lasting. You’ll meet new people, get your hands dirty for a good cause, and leave knowing you’ve made a real difference — not just for the river, but for the community that surrounds it. 

Join us this year and be part of something bigger. Because protecting your happy place starts with showing up, and there’s no better place to start than the Yuba.