Cleanup Initiative
The High 5 Initiative schedules cleanups at 3 rivers in Cecil County twice a year, with the season starting around Earth Day. The Elk River, North East River and the Susquehanna River below the Conowingo Dam have historically been underserved tributaries to the Chesapeake Bay. Additionally, The High 5 Initiaitve has also adopted Rock Run Road, which runs along Rock Run leading to the Susquehanna River, and does a cleanup along the steep mile stretch 4 times a year.
We have had multiple groups join us and we take the opportunity to have fun and educate about the different types of litter and what can be done to prevent it along the way.
Picking up litter is something the founders of The High 5 Initiative have always done. Whenever hiking or kayaking, they take gloves and bags to cleanup along the way. The amount of trash left in our open green spaces is quite alarming and a great deal end up in our waterways. This is a simple and small gesture we can all do! When enjoying the outdoors, remember to pack in and pack out.
If you are aware of any particular location that could use the attention of an organized group or would like to sponsor a community cleanup, click here.
If you are unable to participate in a cleanup, but would still like to help, click here.
The list of upcoming cleanups and information is located below.
Sponsors and Partners
Partial financial assistance has been provided through the Cecil County VLT Local Community Grant Program, sponsored by the Cecil County Executive.
We are very excited to announce our partnership with Beltway Companies! We are extremely grateful to them for their generous corporate donation and to those that have volunteered at our cleanups. We look forward to working together towards a healthier Chesapeake Bay!
We have partnered with Cecil County Stormwater Management to help reach their public education and participation goals.
We are pleased to announce Sunmed Growers is a River Champion! We are extremely grateful for their donation to help pay for supplies to help keep Cecil County waterways clean!
Partial financial assistance provided by Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development with a Community Safety Works Award for 2025.
Jerry Skrivanek V.F.W. Post 8185 in Port Deposit, MD has generously donated to help cover the cost of supplies and incentives for volunteers for the past few years.
