Like any urban watershed, litter and plastic waste are ongoing issues posing threats to the health of our waterways, local wildlife and community. Junction Creek was once treated as a ditch in which garbage and waste were dumped into, giving it the name ‘Junk’ Creek. With a better understanding about the importance of keeping our waterways clean and healthy, awareness programs and clean-up initiatives empowered positive change, building appreciation for water stewardship and conservation.
The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee coordinates creek clean-ups as part of the City of Greater Sudbury’s Adopt-A-Spot program and conducts litter monitoring surveys to identify litter hotspots along Junction Creek. Based on these hotspots, clean-up activities are coordinated with volunteer groups, local businesses and the general public. These 2 hour events remove litter to lessen the environmental and social impact of garbage and plastic waste building up in our watershed.
Beginning in 2019 we began a partnership with Plastic-Free Greater Sudbury to sort and tally garbage during Junction Creek clean-up events. Tallying the litter provides data on the types of litter removed from the creek and surrounding shorelines. This helps to gain a better understanding of the specific challenges experienced by different sections of the creek and offers guidance for planning appropriate mitigation measures. Results are shared in our annual Clean-up Reports.
2019 Junction Creek Clean-up Report
2020 Junction Creek Clean-up Report
Are you interested in volunteering at a clean-up? The Junction Creek Stewardship Committee usually hosts 1-2 public clean-ups in the Spring and/or Fall. For these events, we provide a call-out to the general public on our website, social media, Junction Creek Members, and through Earth Crew (Coalition for a Liveable Sudbury).
We coordinate most of the creek clean-ups with volunteer groups from local organizations, businesses, clubs, and other community groups. Talk with your fellow clubs, colleagues or your local Community Action Network Group about gathering a group of volunteers for a clean-up in your neighbourhood. Then reach out to us for assistance!
We offer training, supplies, and guidance to provide community groups with the knowledge and tools to safely clean-up designated sections of Junction Creek. Help improve your neighbourhood by becoming an Adopt-a-Creek partner. Contact us for more information, restoration@junctioncreek.com.
Steps for a Safe Solo Clean-up
Clean-up Safety Tips
Illegal Dumping Campaign