Volunteers Remove 8,000 Pounds in SYRCL Yuba River Cleanup

NORTH YUBA — On Saturday, September 20, the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL) organized the 28th Annual Yuba River Cleanup, during which volunteers worked to remove trash from the Yuba watershed. Organizers emphasized “micro trash,” which includes small pieces such as cigarette butts, dental floss picks, broken glass, and bits of plastic. Although such debris often goes unnoticed, SYRCL emphasizes its detrimental impact on water quality, wildlife, and the river’s scenic appeal.

SYRCL expects final counts soon, but preliminary figures indicate that 657 volunteers collected more than 8,000 pounds of trash and recyclables from 25 sites across the watershed. Among the unusual discoveries were a chandelier, a fishnet skirt, a mining beam, and an antique animal trap.

The cleanup represents the culmination of SYRCL’s broader stewardship activities. The group also collaborates with California State Parks on the River Ambassador program, through which ambassadors engaged 8,827 of the 36,407 counted visitors at the Highway 49 and Bridgeport Crossings this summer. Those ambassadors promoted river safety, fire safety, and responsible trash disposal.

“SYRCL’s Cleanup is only possible because of the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our sponsors,” said Aaron Zettler-Mann, SYRCL’s Executive Director. “From site leaders to first-time participants, every person who showed up made a difference. Together, we removed thousands of pounds of harmful trash, much of it micro trash that often slips under the radar. Together we took another important step toward a cleaner, healthier Yuba River.”

At least 33 local sponsors and nine donors, along with the participating volunteers, supported the 2025 cleanup. SYRCL extended special thanks to the 29 individuals who served as site leaders. Additional details about SYRCL and volunteer opportunities are available at www.yubariver.org.