Cleaning up a river can be a challenge, but cleaning up a large system such as the Chilliwack Vedder River almost seems impossible. There are no immediate solutions, but a long term plan can certainly improve the situation slowly. Some actions have been taken to reduce the negative impact of this trend.

Group Cleanups

Since February 2002, major clean-up events have been held with great result. During these events, Volunteers meet up at a given location and time, and spend up to four hours cleaning their allocated section of the river. During Rivers Day 2002, 200 participants cleaned up the Lower Vedder River downstream from the Vedder Crossing. Over 5 tonnes of garbage was collected. Beside the major cleanups, small cleaning activities are also organized by CVRCC throughout the year.

Adopt-a-River

River cleanup is only a solution to the problem, not a prevention. To prevent the garbage problem from escalating, CVRCC has been developing a river adoption program. We hope, by having user groups adopting sections of the river, it can be constantly patrolled and cleaned. We want to encourage the community to be more involved.

Education

Education is also another important component of this program. The public needs to be aware of what is happening out there. This website acts as a broadcasting tool for readers so you can stay updated on the state of Chilliwack Vedder River and the progress of CVRCC.