Volunteers needed to Bash Trash at Cape LaCroix Creek

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. – Tires, washing machines, and smaller items have been pulled out of Cape LaCroix Creek in Cape Girardeau over the years as part of the annual Missouri Department of Conservation’s Bashin’ Trash event that partners with the Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Department’s Park Day.

This year’s event is scheduled for Saturday, April 26, from 9 a.m. to noon. Sara Turner, Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center manager, said she wonders each year what the group might find in the creek.

“The items have progressively gotten smaller over the years, which tells me we’re making a real difference,” Turner said.

According to Turner, additional hands are needed to help gather trash out of and from around the creek between Walden Park and Shawnee Sports Complex.

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

Turner said this is a fun annual event that also brings groups together in the outdoors.

“There’s a lot of satisfaction to be had in improving and helping something in nature,” she said. “This is a great opportunity to teach children and grandchildren about contributing to nature.”

Turner said volunteers should register for this event by calling (573) 290-5218 becuse lunch and t-shirts will be provided to volunteers.

The group will meet at the 4-H Shelter in Arena Park to divide and conquer the area. Trash bags and gloves will be provided to volunteers. For more information on this or other stewardship and conservation opportunities visit www.mdc.mo.gov, and click on the events tab.