Al DePaoli said Millers Run in Cecil Township is a popular fishing destination, and that little kids can often be seen trying to catch crawfish there.
And while the aquatic health there is currently "very good," the township parks and recreation department member said it takes vigilance and some volunteer work to keep it that way.
That's why the department, as well as the Pennsylvania River Sweep cordially invites local folks to come out to be part of an upcoming cleanup effort.
"It is a wonderful spark of energy to spotlight these areas, get local folks involved. Weavertown’s plan is to expand the coverage area of the sweep all the way to the Cecil Park, about 1.5 miles," he said. "Also it is a great event to celebrate Fathers Day."
The River Sweep, an annual six-state effort to clean up litter and debris in the Ohio River watershed, is the largest organized volunteer river cleanup effort in the country. The event winds through Ohio, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Illinois, covering more than 2,400 miles of shoreline.
“The River Sweep teaches river awareness and respect for our natural resources,” said Betsy Mallison, Pennsylvania River Sweep Coordinator. “Get your family involved, teach them about our waterways and help make a difference in our water quality.”
Along with families, church groups, scout troops and local businesses have participated in the event. One local company, The Weavertown Environmental Group in Cecil, has supported the River Sweep for more than 17 years.
“This event is in line with our corporate mission to give back to the communities in which we work, play and live,” said Washington County River Sweep Coordinator Dawn Fuchs, president and chief executive officer of the Weavertown Environmental Group. “This event helps us to clean up tributaries that ultimately lead to the Ohio River, so that all of us can enjoy our waterways for recreation.”
Volunteers interested in helping to clean up Miller’s Run in Washington County can meet in Cecil Park or near the Cecil Post office at 3333 Miller’s Run Road.
The Cecil Township Parks and Recreation Board will be serving hot dogs and hamburgers for the helpers at the Cecil Park Concession stand that day.
“We are honored and delighted that ORSANCO and Weavertown would choose Miller’s Run as part of its River Sweep Program,” said Cecil Township Manager Donald Gennuso. “Programs, such as this, help to promote community gatherings throughout our region. Cecil Township supports and sponsors many community events throughout the year and strongly encourages all of our residents to help out with this great event. It is vitally important to do our part to keep the waterways clean."
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