Come help clean the San Francisco River

Contributed Article/Courtesy Gila Watershed Partnership of Arizona

CLIFTON – The beautiful San Francisco River is designated an important bird habitat and is a hot spot for the local community to recreate. Unfortunately, it is also designated an impaired waterway because of high levels of E. coli, a bacteria that can be harmful to humans. River clean-ups are one of the ways we work together to improve water quality.

Individuals, groups, and families are welcome to join us for our next clean up event, Saturday, September 7, from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. We will meet at the Riverside Park in Clifton, under the ramada at 8 a.m. for check-in and a safety briefing.

Bring your own reusable water bottle and we will provide the water. Hats, sunglasses, and closed-toed shoes are highly recommended. Gloves, safety vests, and garbage bags will be provided. All volunteers will receive a free lunch and 10% off at Chase Creek Marketplace on the day of the event. RSVP is required for lunch.

To RSVP or for more information, contact Kara Barron, Science & Outreach Manager, Gila Watershed Partnership at (928) 424-3886 or email: kara@gwpaz.org.

The event is in partnership with SEACAB, ADEQ, the town of Clifton, Freeport-McMoRan and Friends of the Frisco.

The Gila Watershed Partnership was founded in 1992 by community members who were concerned about having a say in our watershed issues. Its mission is to engage the community in improving the water quality and ecosystem condition of the Upper Gila Watershed through education and economic opportunity. GWP is shaping a new vision for the watershed – one that includes improvements to the environment, economy, and quality of life for all members of the community.