ROCHESTER, N.Y. — The spring thaw has uncovered some trash and debris around our state waterways. That's why volunteers are needed for the annual statewide Canal Clean Sweep happening next month from Albany to Buffalo.

What You Need To Know

  • PTNY will be hosting Canal Clean Sweep April 19-21

  • More than 150 clean-up events are planned along the Canal and Canalway Trail

  • The Canalway Trail Adopt-a-Trail program allows organizations to maintain a trail year-round

Clean Sweep hosts and volunteers are needed around the state the weekend of April 19-21 to celebrate Earth Day.

"This park is an absolute bonus to our neighborhood," said Karen Emerson of Rochester.

Emerson loves a bike ride, especially along the historic Erie Canal. She joined the Rotary Club of Rochester Southwest to network and make new friends because she loves her community.

"At one point in my life, I lived, worked, shopped and went to the doctor in my own neighborhood. It simplifies life so much," said Emerson.

She's planning to join fellow Rotarians like Glenn Cerosaletti to pick up trash along the Genesee River and Erie Canal for the 19th annual Clean Sweep.

"We are out here monthly cleaning and maintaining and beautifying the trail," said Glenn Cerosaletti, president of the Rotary of Rochester Southwest.

They're hoping more volunteers will join them. They've even adopted a trail to help tidy up year-round.

"I love the river, the flow of the river, and the trails and being able to spend time here. What's important for me, and with our rotary club is providing access to those natural, historic and cultural resources. It is really a way to help us build our community and build our club and do important work," said Cerosaletti.

Some 3,500 volunteers at more than 150 locations from Buffalo to Rochester to Syracuse and Albany are expected to take part in this year's Clean Sweep. Church groups, schools, sports teams and businesses are all invited to pick up trash along the Erie Canal, Glenn Falls, the Genesee and Black Rivers and other waterways.

Leading the Clean Sweep are Parks and Trails New York and the New York State Canal Corporation. To host an event or find one where you live, click here.