In just over a week, residents of Drumheller are encouraged to come out and show their civic pride by helping make Drumheller a cleaner place.
On April 23, the day after Earth Day, Communities in Bloom, Encana, and the Royal Tyrrell Museum are sponsoring this year’s Valley Trash Challenge, where volunteers lend a hand and pick up the litter that plagues the town.
All day, until 4 p.m., residents and businesses are asked to take some time, grab a garbage bag, and collect some litter that has been accumulating in the valley. Afterwards, between 4 and 6 p.m. the Heartwood Inn is hosting a barbecue with food and drinks provided by Encana.
“It’s a chance for people to help the town,” said Trish Parker, president of Communities in Bloom. “I think if tourists don’t see all the trash, they’ll be more likely to stay or come back.”
Across the street from the Heartwood Inn, in the area next to the recycling bins, a garbage dumpster will be provided for the bags residents fill.
The Valley Trash Challenge was spawned originally from the efforts of Encana volunteers five years ago, explained Luigi Vescarelli, Community Relations Officer with Encana.
“In the spirit of our volunteer program, we looked at an event that we, and our families, could do together,” said Vescarelli. “I got in touch with the Town of Drumheller and asked if they would be receptive to us going out and cleaning up some of the garbage.”
Afterwards, other organizations began similar initiatives independently.
“The Museum takes pride in keeping our trails and green spaces clean and free of garbage. Earth Day is the perfect day for us to concentrate on making a difference,” said Mike Dooley, public relations and new media coordinator of the Royal Tyrrell Museum.
Everyone joined forces and the Valley Trash Challenge was born.
Parker hopes the day will help encourage people to not litter and for residents to help keep the town litter free year round, for example cleaning up litter when walking a dog.
“That’s one thing to be commended,” said Parker.
Everyone is encouraged to come out, help, and enjoy the free barbecue afterwards.
“It’s great to see the town supports the initiative to make our town green and as beautiful as possible,” said Dooley.
“There’s that sense of pride when you look at the town and it’s cleaner,” said Vescarelli.