Volunteers, sponsors sought for Cross Bayou/Joe's Creek cleanup

Oct. 7, 2022

Volunteers are needed to join Pinellas County Environmental Management and Keep Pinellas Beautiful in a cleanup event at Cross Bayou Canal and Joe's Creek on Saturday, Oct. 15, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Part of the International Coastal Cleanup campaign, the event involves the removal of debris in and along Cross Bayou Canal and Joe's Creek. Volunteers wanting to help on the water can bring their own watercraft or borrow a canoe or kayak for as long as supplies last. Life jackets are required and will be provided to those borrowing a boat. Note that volunteers must be 18 or over and paddleboards are not permitted.

Check-in begins at 8 a.m. at the Pinellas County property at the intersection of 70th Avenue North and 78th Street North near the Wagon Wheel Flea Market on Park Boulevard. Trash collection takes place from 8:30 to 11 a.m. After the refuse has been disposed of there will be lunch and a free raffle drawing.

Volunteers should wear comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and bring a chair or towel to sit on. Trash grabbers, bags, gloves and drinking water will be provided. A water truck will also be available for volunteers to clean their watercraft after the cleanup. Registration by Thursday, Oct. 13, is required. Call Ryan Ryczek at (727) 464-4462 or go to https://CrossBayouJoesCreekCleanupICC202­2.eventbrite.com.

Sponsorships, donations

Opportunities for sponsorships are also available for local businesses. Sponsors with exhibition spaces are allowed to set-up their space starting at 7:30 a.m. Donated items are also appreciated. All donated items should be received no later than Thursday, Oct. 13. For more information or to schedule a business as a sponsor, contact Ryan Ryczek at (727) 464-4462 or [email protected]. Checks for sponsorship should be made payable to the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners.