Volunteer Opportunities
If you are interested in protecting our natural resources, get involved in our public education programs. You, your community or school group can participate in stream-bank litter cleanups, invasive plant removal & many other activities that promote awareness & appreciation of our natural waterways.
National Take Back Day Occurs Annually in April & October
National Take Back day events occur annually in April (4/22/23) and October (date TBD). Fortunately, Franklin County host's several permanent drug drop-off locations too; visit the SWACO website for year-round sites.
Plan Your Own Litter Cleanup
Want to plan your own neighborhood litter cleanup? For planning assistance and supplies, Columbus residents should contact: Keep Columbus Beautiful at 614-645-8027. KCB can provide litter grabbers, safety vests, bags & other tools; they offer an Adopt-an-Area program and graffiti cleanup too. Visit the KCB page at Columbus Refuse.
Storm Drain Marker Program
Summer & fall offer perfect weather for this volunteer opportunity to raise awareness that dumping waste into storm drains contributes to water pollution & endangers wildlife. Decals, adhesive & instruction is provided for volunteers to apply on curbs near storm drain inlets - perfect for individuals or groups.
Keep It Clean
Prevent water pollution through everyday living with simple tips to keep our water clean. Simple steps you can take at home such as: disposal of household hazardous waste, yard waste (including pet waste) and cooking grease; making simple lawn care choices; reducing stormwater runoff; maintaining cars & driveways properly; litter clean-ups & more.
Participate in a Household Hazardous Waste Collection Program
These common materials used in the home can cause injury and are harmful if disposed of improperly. Never dump them into a storm drain, open waterway or ditch. Learn how to dispose of them properly - there are many permanent free drop-off locations and mobile collection events (May in Dublin; September in Grove City, October in Westerville).
Take the PUP Pledge
Take the PUP Pledge - get a free pooch prize. Cleaning up after your dog is a simple, everyday thing you can do to help keep waterways free of harmful bacteria. Clean Water is the Goal.
Volunteers Are Needed Year-Round by Local Watersheds
Local watershed groups plan year-round events and other ways to participate in keeping our waterways clean, including streambank litter cleanups, invasive plant removal & more.
Start a Community Garden
A community garden is a single piece of land gardened collectively by a group of people. They provide fresh produce and plants as well as satisfying labor, exercise, neighborhood improvement, sense of community and connection to the environment.
Put Rainwater to Use
Rain gardens and rain barrels put rainfall to use, reducing the need for irrigation. Save money while protecting our water supply. Residents of the City of Columbus who have signed up as GreenSpot members are invited to buy a deeply discounted rain barrel, while supplies last.
Household Hazardous Waste Events
Join a Household Hazardous Waste Event Saturday, April 22; open to central Ohio residents. Please check swaco.org for additional events, accepted items and the year-round collection site.
Hoover Reservoir Litter Cleanup
Volunteers are encouraged to participate in this annual fall litter cleanup Saturday, September 30, 2023 at Hoover Reservoir. If interested in volunteering, contact Watershed Management at 614-645-1721 or watershed@columbus.gov.