On the Ground: Volunteers remove hundreds of pounds of trash from the Clinton River Watershed

Kristina Kennedy • April 20, 2023

Volunteers cleaned-up trash from in and around Dawsons Millpond in Pontiac.

On Saturday, April 15, 2023, 28 volunteers gathered at Beaudette Park in Pontiac, Michigan to take part in the Clinton River Watershed Clean-Up hosted by MUCC’s On the Ground (OTG) program and the Metro-West Steelheaders.

Once the clean-up started, volunteers broke off into smaller groups to remove trash from around the park including the forested shoreline of Dawsons Millpond which is part of the Clinton River Watershed. We lucked out with an 80-degree spring day so some volunteers waded into the water to remove trash including plastic bottles, treated lumber, and tangled fishing line.

Photo courtesy of Michigan Trash Divers

We were even joined by Michigan Trash Divers, a group dedicated to removing trash from Michigan’s waterways! They were able to collect tires, waterlogged couch cushions and a huge load of other trash from the bottom of the millpond which eventually flows into the Clinton River and then to Lake St. Clair.

This area is also known for great birding opportunities. During spring migration, many species of warblers and other migrating songbirds can be spotted in the park. The year-round open water at Dawsons Millpond also attracts many overwintering waterfowl. By removing trash from in and around the waterway, volunteers improved fish and wildlife habitat while also making the park a safer place for recreationists.

In total, volunteers removed 50 bags of trash from the Watershed, improving 33 acres of terrestrial and aquatic habitat.

For a list of upcoming On the Ground volunteer opportunities, please visit mucc.org/on-the-ground/. Our next river clean-up event will take place on July 15 on the Manistee River. Stay tuned for more details!

Recent Posts

Mayflies, Stoneflies, and Caddisflies, Oh My!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 17, 2025
In addition to their impact on water quality, these three orders of insects are an important part of the diet of game fish, making anglers, especially fly fishermen, interested in the conservation of these small animals.

Mast-Producing Trees 101

By Katelyn Helsel • April 16, 2025
You might’ve heard the term “mast-producing” in the conservation world, but what exactly does it mean? Mast-producing is mostly used to describe a type of tree or shrub. Generally, mast-producing trees and shrubs are more desirable to plant when attempting to restore wildlife habitat on a larger scale, or even when trying to attract wildlife like songbirds into urban areas. 

MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed!

By Olivia Triltsch • April 15, 2025
MUCC Marks 250th Habitat Project with Clinton River Clean-Up—Volunteers Needed! Rochester Hills, MI — April 15, 2025 — Michigan United Conservation Clubs (MUCC) is proud to announce its 250th On the Ground (OTG) habitat improvement project: a community clean-up of the Clinton River at Yates Park in Rochester Hills. The event will take place on Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM . In partnership with Metro-West Steelheaders and the Clinton River Watershed Council, this initiative aims to enhance fish and wildlife habitats by removing trash from the river and surrounding riparian zones. The project not only benefits local ecosystems but also fosters a cleaner, healthier community and environment. Event Details: Location: Yates Park, 1990 E Avon Rd, Rochester Hills, MI 48307 Time: 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM What to Bring: Work gloves (if available), appropriate outdoor attire, and a reusable water bottle. MUCC will provide waders, trash grabbers, trash bags, lunch, and a volunteer appreciation gift. This milestone event underscores MUCC's commitment to conservation and community engagement. "Reaching our 250th project is a testament to the dedication of our volunteers and partners," said Olivia Triltsch, MUCC's Habitat Program and Partnerships Coordinator. "We invite everyone to join us in making a tangible impact on our natural resources." Registration:  Interested volunteers should register by Friday, April 18, at 2:00 PM. To expedite check-in, please complete the digital volunteer waiver individually for each participant. Individuals under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign the waiver. For late registrations or cancellations, contact Olivia Triltsch at otriltsch@mucc.org. MUCC is always excited to work alongside the Clinton River Watershed Council. Their continued efforts to protect, enhance, and promote the Clinton River and its watershed are deeply valued. Together, we make a greater impact on ensuring clean, healthy waterways and thriving wildlife habitats for generations to come.
More Posts