Simi Valley sits miles from the coast, but the trash that blows through its parks and creeks doesn't stay put. On Saturday, September 19, residents can help stop some of it before it gets there.
The city's environmental team will host a Coastal Cleanup Day event at Rancho Simi Community Park, known locally as Duck Park, from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers should check in at the northeast corner of the park near Arroyo Simi and Erringer Road, where staff will hand out instructions before the work begins.
The event is part of California's largest annual volunteer tradition. The California Coastal Commission organized the first Coastal Cleanup Day in 1985 along the coast. This year marks the 42nd anniversary. The state effort ties into the worldwide International Coastal Cleanup coordinated by the Ocean Conservancy.
Despite the name, the cleanup has never been just about the beach. Much of the trash that ends up in the ocean starts as street litter and runoff from inland communities. That's why cleanups at parks and creeks matter just as much as ones on the sand.
Arroyo Simi, which runs through Duck Park, drains toward the Santa Clara River and eventually the Pacific. What volunteers pick up on Saturday morning is trash that won't make that trip.
The city's environmental division, which oversees trash, recycling and hazardous waste programs, organizes the local event. The same team works year-round to keep pollutants out of local waterways.
Volunteers don't need special equipment or experience. The city will provide gloves and bags. Residents should wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. Families are welcome.
The cleanup runs for three hours, but volunteers can show up anytime during that window and work for as long as they want. Even an hour makes a difference.
The event is also a reminder that volunteer cleanups don't have to be scheduled. Picking up a few pieces of litter during a walk through the neighborhood or spending five extra minutes cleaning up around the car at the beach adds up. It's a small habit, but it's an easy way to give something back to the community.
Anyone with questions can email environmentalcompliance@simivalley.org or call the Environmental Compliance Hotline at (805) 583-6420. Duck Park is located at 1765 Royal Avenue.
