The Town of Collingwood is inviting residents to take part in its annual community cleanup initiative, which will run from April 20 to May 12, 2026. This multi-week event encourages volunteers to help clean local parks and trails as part of a provincial effort to address litter.
To help residents participate, the town is offering free cleanup supplies including garbage bags, recycling bags, and gloves. These items will be available for pickup starting Monday, April 20, at the Collingwood Public Library or at Town Hall during regular business hours.
The cleanup effort is part of a broader local focus on environmental protection, following the town council’s 2019 declaration of a climate crisis. This year, the initiative is supported by partners including the Collingwood Climate Action Team and the Environment Network. The season will kick off on Saturday, April 18, 2026, with the 5th Annual EarthFest, held at the Collingwood Leisure Time Club from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Jennifer Parker, manager of culture and events for the town, is coordinating the effort. Residents, community groups, or businesses interested in organizing a cleanup or identifying specific areas in need of maintenance are encouraged to contact her at [email protected].
The cleanup period concludes on May 13, 2026, which coincides with the provincial Day of Action on Litter. According to town officials, these efforts are aimed at reducing the environmental impact of waste in the region, noting that Ontario produces nearly one tonne of waste per person annually, with 10,000 tonnes of plastic debris reaching local lakes and rivers each year.
