Each year, Earth Day gives us a moment to pause—to look around and ask ourselves what kind of impact we’re making on the world we live in. For those of us who spend time on the water, that question hits especially close to home. Our rivers, lakes, and shorelines are more than scenic backdrops—they’re places of renewal, adventure, and community.
But they need our help.
In the Tri-Cities, we’re fortunate to have access to incredible paddling spots—from the calm waters at Clover Island to the winding views near Howard Amon Park. These places bring people together, support local wildlife, and offer a unique connection to nature. Yet even here, litter accumulates: bottles stuck in the rocks, cans along the shoreline, fishing line tangled in branches, plastic bags drifting with the current.
And while one piece of trash might not seem like a big deal, the truth is—it adds up.
A Hidden Problem With Real Consequences
Shoreline litter is more than an eyesore. It disrupts ecosystems, harms fish and birds, and leaches chemicals into the water over time. Microplastics from bags, wrappers, and synthetic fibers have even been found in the stomachs of fish and the bodies of aquatic insects.
That pollution doesn’t stay contained. It travels—carried downstream, affecting neighboring habitats and communities. Clean water is a shared resource. When it’s compromised in one area, we all feel the effects.
For paddlers, dirty shorelines don’t just mean murky views—they can mean hazardous conditions. Stepping into the water with exposed glass or navigating around debris can be dangerous. Worse yet, polluted water access points can make some areas feel off-limits, especially to new paddlers or families just getting started.
Local Action, Lasting Impact
At Aqueous SUP, we see access to clean, safe, and beautiful waterways as both a shared privilege and a responsibility—one that calls us to protect what we love. And shoreline cleanups are one of the most accessible, tangible ways to honor that responsibility.
They don’t require a lot of gear or a special skill set. You don’t need to paddle fast or lift heavy. You just need a bag, some gloves, and a willingness to give back. Whether you’re joining a group cleanup or quietly picking up as you paddle solo, you’re making a real difference—not just for the environment, but for the community that shares it.
In past cleanups, we’ve had families join us to share the importance of stewardship with their kids. We’ve welcomed people we’d never met before who felt compelled to help. And we’ve seen longtime paddlers give back by clearing launch sites they’ve used and loved for years. These efforts—big and small—remind us of the power of local stewardship. They also pave the way for better water access for everyone, especially new paddlers, families, and folks just beginning to explore the outdoors.
What Makes It Special
What’s powerful about a shoreline cleanup is that it’s immediate. You see the change. The before-and-after is real and often humbling. But beyond the bags of trash collected, it’s also about the mindset shift. It’s about looking at our waterways not just as recreation spaces—but as shared ecosystems we all play a part in protecting.
Shoreline cleanups also bring people together in a uniquely hopeful way. You meet people who care. You find community in purpose. And more often than not, you leave with a deeper appreciation for the waters that give us so much joy.
How You Can Get Involved This Earth Day
This April, Aqueous SUP invites you to be part of that ripple effect. Whether you join us for an organized cleanup, start your own at your favorite launch spot, or simply commit to packing out what you pack in—your effort matters.
We’ll be hosting a shoreline cleanup on Earth Day, Tuesday, April 22, and participating in monthly cleanup efforts throughout the season. There are also several local cleanups happening on Saturday, April 19 if you’d like to join a community effort over the weekend. Keep an eye on our social media for full details—we’d love to see you out there!
Here are a few easy ways to get involved:
- Join a local cleanup. Stay tuned to our events page or social channels for info on upcoming shoreline cleanup activities.
- Make cleanup part of your paddle. Bring a reusable bag and spend the last 10 minutes of your session collecting litter.
- Adopt a launch site. Pick a spot you love and commit to keeping it clean throughout the season.
- Share your impact. Inspire others by sharing your cleanup efforts and tagging us on social media. You never know who you might motivate.
Ready to protect the places you paddle?
We’d love to hear from you: What’s your favorite shoreline, and how will you show it a little love this Earth Day? Whether it’s joining a cleanup, picking up litter after a solo paddle, or simply helping others understand why it matters—every small act adds up.
Let’s celebrate Earth Day not just with intention, but with action. Together, we can create cleaner access points, healthier waterways, and a stronger paddling community—right here in the Tri-Cities and beyond.
Thank you for being part of a community that cares deeply for our waters. Your impact matters—and it inspires others to do the same.