The South Hill Community Association (SHCA) is continuing their efforts to keep public spaces clean with their second cleanup day in Tatawâw Park this year.
Turnout for the first cleanup day on May 19 was better than expected despite falling on the long weekend, and the dedicated group ended up collecting 12 bags of garbage during their attentive walk through the park.
Crystal Froese of the SHCA hopes to see as much support for the fall cleanup day as the spring event was given, as it’s a great chance to tidy up the city before winter weather traps any garbage under the snow.
“We thought, when the trails had been used all summer and before the snow flies, it would probably be a good idea to go back out there and do a little cleanup as well,” said Froese.
Both the SHCA and Beautifi Moose Jaw have put out a citywide message to encourage people to take better care of public spaces throughout the summer. For the most part, Froese feels that Moose Jaw has responded well, but can always do better.
“I think the people that are out walking every day definitely see the impact of littering,” said Froese. “But also people can be pretty much lazy. They come and enjoy the park . . . and instead of going and finding a garbage can, they'll toss their lunch litter or whatever they brought with them just to the side.”
She encouraged people to consider coming out to Tatawâw Park on Sept. 28, or to take their own initiative and head over to one of the green spaces in their local neighbourhoods to do some cleanup of their own.
“Just like what we did in May, we're encouraging people across the city to go out on that same weekend, into their favorite parks and on their trails and around their neighborhoods, wherever they like to go for walks, and take a garbage bag with them and just be a good neighbor and pick up any trash or litter that they see,” said Froese.
Froese noted that the litter in the park during the last cleanup was largely cigarette butts, plastic bottles or takeout containers, and plastic bags, and encouraged people to remember to take their refuse with them after visiting Tatawâw Park or other spaces.
“We want to love where we live and look after it, and so on September 22nd, we're just really encouraging people to come out and help us at Tatawâw Park,” said Froese.
The cleanup group will meet at the bridge at the end of 7th Avenue SW at 9 a.m. and pick their way through the park until noon. The SHCA will be providing garbage bags, as well as coffee — all volunteers need to bring is their to-go cup and perhaps a pair of gloves.
