As summer unfolds in the Pacific Northwest, the season invites residents and visitors alike to embrace the beauty of local beaches, parks, and rivers.
However, this increased outdoor activity can also lead to a rise in litter and environmental strain.
In response, SOLVE has officially launched its Summer with SOLVE campaign, aimed at connecting communities, taking meaningful action, and celebrating the region’s natural beauty through environmental initiatives.
“Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s also a time to ensure these spaces remain clean and sustainable for future generations,” said Kris Carico, CEO of SOLVE.
“Together, we can create cleaner, more inviting spaces that reflect our pride in our region and our commitment to caring for the environment.
By working together, we can make a significant impact and inspire others to join in the effort to protect our natural spaces that we love to enjoy, especially during summer.”
The campaign commenced with the Pick It Up, Portland! event, which took place on June 5 to coincide with World Environment Day.
This citywide celebration focused on four key locations in Portland, including Market Street Downtown, Holladay Park, Sellwood Riverfront Park, and Eastbank Esplanade.
This event marks the beginning of numerous volunteer opportunities that SOLVE has planned for summer, with a particular emphasis on the ongoing Waterway Cleanup Series aimed at safeguarding local rivers, streams, and creeks.
As outdoor recreation ramps up, volunteers from SOLVE will focus on several critical activities to enhance the community’s natural surroundings.
These efforts will include removing litter from a variety of locations such as parks, neighborhoods, beaches, and riverbanks, as well as maintaining recreational sites and public green spaces.
Additional activities will involve mulching around native trees and shrubs, and removing invasive plant species like Japanese knotweed, Himalayan blackberry, and Scotch broom that proliferate during the warmer months.
Key upcoming events include Afterglow, a cleanup effort scheduled for July 5-6, to address the debris left by 4th of July celebrations and restore outdoor spaces.
The Willamette River Cleanup on August 9 will specifically target litter both on the river and along its banks.
Throughout the summer, the Waterway Cleanup Series will continue, focusing on the preservation of Oregon’s waterways during the peak outdoor season.
Moreover, SOLVE organizes Monthly Detrash Portland Events that aim to engage the community in cleanups throughout Portland’s business districts, revitalizing areas that require attention.
Looking ahead, SOLVE is preparing for its annual Beach & Riverside Cleanup scheduled from September 20-28, aligning with important global environmental initiatives such as International Coastal Cleanup, World Rivers Day, and National Public Lands Day.
SOLVE encourages everyone to participate in safeguarding and preserving the stunning natural spaces that define the Pacific Northwest this summer.
Whether volunteering at an organized cleanup, leading a group of friends, or embarking on a DIY project, there are numerous ways for individuals to get involved.
Participants can take on the Trash Bag Challenge — pick up a litter bag and challenge friends or coworkers to do the same, extending the impact and motivating others to act.
Every effort matters.
Together, we can ensure our neighborhoods, parks, and waterways remain pristine and beautiful for future generations.
For further information on how to engage with the Summer with SOLVE campaign, visit solveoregon.org/seasons or connect with SOLVE on social media.
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