The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission
News Events

VSO – Watershed Cleanups

Two student volunteers cleaning up trash from park. They carry trash bags full of trash. Green grass and tree in the background
Group of student volunteers taking a group photo at a cleanup event.
Group photo of volunteers from the cleanup at Wheaton Claridge Local Park for MLK Day
Group of student volunteers taking a group photo at a cleanup event.
Group photo of volunteers from the cleanup at Wheaton Claridge Local Park for MLK Day

Litter in our parks can end up in the Potomac River, the Chesapeake Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. Volunteers like you help keep the environment cleaner and healthier for plants, wildlife, and people!

Join the Next Cleanup

Cleanups for Individuals & Families 

Individuals and families can join a cleanup hosted by Montgomery Parks. Click here to register for the next cleanup.

  • New volunteers must create an account (takes about 5 minutes).
  • Cleanups are pre-approved for SSL hours. Forms are provided at cleanups.
  • Students must pre-register to receive SSL hours.
  • Children under 14 years old must volunteer with a parent/guardian.
  • Cleanups are not eligible for court-ordered service.
Branding for Join a cleanup volunteer opportunity.

Organize a Group Cleanup

Scout troops, corporate groups, student groups, and community organizations can schedule a group cleanup day at a park or stream! Cleanups are open to all ages, but group leaders must be 18+ to register.

  1. Register your group for the appropriate application below (we ask for a two-week notice)
  2. We will send you a Group Leaders info packet
  3. Confirm your cleanup details and pick up your cleanup kit
  4. Have a fun, safe cleanup
  5. Send us your Sign-in Sheet and the Cleanup Results

Cleanup Leader 1 – Adult Group Self-Guided Cleanups

This application is for adult groups.

Group types include businesses, college student groups, and non-profit organizations.

Apply here!

Cleanup Leader 2 – Youth Groups & Public Cleanups (Background Check Required)

This application is for cleanups that include volunteers under 18. Once certified, cleanup leaders can offer Student Service Learning (SSL) hours.

Apply here!

Find a Watershed Organization Near You

Looking for more ways to get involved? Several local watershed organizations host cleanups, restoration projects, and events in Montgomery County.

Watershed Groups in Montgomery County:

  • Eyes of Paint Branch
  • Friends of Cabin John Creek
  • Friends of Sligo Creek
  • Little Falls Watershed Alliance
  • Muddy Branch Alliance
  • Neighbors of the Northwest Branch 
  • Seneca Creek Watershed Partners
  • Watts Branch Watershed Alliance

Watershed/Nature Organizations in the DC area:

  • Anacostia Riverkeepers
  • Anacostia Watershed Society
  • Defensores de la Cuenca (Watershed Defenders)
  • Nature Forward
  • One Montgomery Green
  • Potomac Conservancy
  • Rock Creek Conservancy