On Sunday, September 25, members of the Elk River Alliance (ERA) were out in full force cleaning up the shoreline of the Elk River.

Groups of volunteers met in Fernie, Sparwood and Elkford to collect the garbage left by the unfortunate, careless individuals who don't quite have the same respect for our community as we would hope.

There were over 50 volunteers to help with the project in Fernie, 10 individuals in Sparwood and the Elkford ATV club headed up operations in Elkford.

Although the amount of garbage collected is still being tallied, Beth Millions with the ERA seemed happy with the turnout in Fernie.

"In Fernie we had over 50 people come out and spend their Sunday afternoon cleaning up by the river. Many volunteers brought their kids to help too, I fully support that."

The cleanup ran from 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. but people in Sparwood and Fernie were done earlier this year which could be a sign that people are starting to litter less and care a little more.

This coincides with the trend over the last few years that Millions has reported.

"The Fernie Youth Group contribute by cleaning Silver Springs which they did earlier this year. They said it's actually getting better and better every year."

The ERA is inviting all who are able to come and show their love and appreciation for the Elk River to the cleanup in 2017 to help keep the Elk River as pristine as possible. The ERA are also asking Elk Valley residents to volunteer for the stream-side restoration project on Monday October 3, and Wednesday October 5. This involves taking cuttings of willow and cottonwood plants and using them to help stabilize some deteriorating slopes.

For more information or to volunteer with the ERA in any way, you can contact Millions at [email protected] or visit www.elkriveralliance.ca.