If there is one simple and concrete action to take in favor of waterways in spring, it is cleaning the banks. And yes: melting ice often leaves waste appearing, a real visual pollution, as much as for bodies of water!
Although everyone has the opportunity to carry out cleaning chores independently, several organizations and citizen groups organize them in order to capitalize on the strength of numbers. Here are six clean-up activities near Montreal to participate in this spring, in a park near you.
May 14: Cleaning of the banks in Tétreaultville
The non-profit organization Sea Shepherd, whose mission is to protect marine ecosystems, is organizing a series of shoreline cleaning activities this spring across the four corners of Quebec. Sea Shepherd will hold its next waste collection activity in the Montreal area on the morning of Saturday, May 14 at Promenade-Bellerive Park, in Tétreauville. The ideal is to arrive equipped, otherwise bags, gloves, some pliers and boilers will be available on site. No registration required.
May 21: Cleaning of the banks in Pointe-aux-Trembles
Join theBlue Organization, L'Idyll Performing arts and the Pointe-aux-Trembles House of Culture Saturday, May 21, from 11 a.m. This spring cleaning chore takes place in the East of Montreal, on the banks of Parc du Bout-de-l'Île overlooking the Rivière des Prairies. Equipment is provided, but be sure to register!
May 21: Cleaning at the bottom of the river in Verdun
Notice to divers: it's time to take out your diving equipment to respond to the invitation launched by the explorer and filmmaker Nathalie Lasselin from Urban Water Odyssey! Meet at the Verdun marina on the morning of Saturday, May 21 to clean the bottom of the St. Lawrence River. You must have a Quebec scuba diving accreditation card, a rope if possible, neoprene gloves and a mesh bag to collect waste!
May 28: Cleaning of the banks in Longueuil
People of the South Shore, here's something to occupy your morning on Saturday, May 28: join Sea Shepherd to clean up the banks of Marie-Victorin Park, in Longueuil. Once again the organization will distribute materials to collect waste, but it is recommended to bring your own. No need to register in advance, be spontaneous!
June 11: Cleaning of the Saint-Jacques River in Brossard
Here is another cleaning activity organized by Nathalie Lasselin, and in collaboration with The Green Vigil. On the one hand, divers are invited to do an aquatic cleanup in the Saint-Jacques River. On the other hand, it is possible to explore it in a canoe, kayak or paddle board (SUP), available for rental at Radisson Park and Bassin-de-La Prairie Park. You are also invited to participate in the classic cleaning of the banks along the river. Bring your gear!
June 18: Cleaning the banks at Parc de Dieppe, near Habitat 67
Take part in a riverbank cleaning activity in the heart of Montreal, near the iconic Habitat 67 building. On Saturday morning of June 18, join your efforts with those of Sea Shepherd at Parc de Dieppe to give a boost to the Saint River -Laurent. The organization recommends bringing your own waste collection equipment, otherwise it will be loaned. Registrations are not required. Keep your eyes peeled for the river surfers riding the eternal wave nearby!
Do you know of other shoreline cleaning initiatives near Montreal that will take place this spring? Contact us!
Cover photo: A bank cleaning was organized at Dieppe Park by the Blue Organization as part of Earth Day. Credit: Blue Organization