The Municipality of Mississippi Mills is encouraging residents to help clean up and improve local green spaces during its annual Spring Greening program, which runs from April 18 to May 3, 2026.
The two-week initiative combines celebrations for Arbour Week and Earth Day. Mayor Christa Lowry said the program is an opportunity for residents of all ages to work together to make the community cleaner and more vibrant.
The event kicks off with a community clean-up from April 18 to 26. Residents interested in participating can pick up bags at the Municipal Office located at 3131 Old Perth Road. These bags can be left at the curb for collection without needing tags. The municipality is also encouraging participants to take photos of their clean-up efforts and email them to waste@mississippimills.ca for a chance to win prizes for finding the most unusual items.
On April 22, to mark Earth Day, the municipality is partnering with the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust and the community group One Mississippi to host a special screening of the film Nature’s Path to Wellness at the Almonte Old Town Hall. The film, which explores how connecting with nature supports emotional resilience, will be followed by a panel discussion.
The program continues into May with a free tree seedling giveaway on Saturday, May 2, from 9 to 11 a.m. Residents can pick up bare-root seedlings, including red oak, silver maple, white pine, tamarack, and red pine, at the Roads and Public Works Garage at 3131 Old Perth Road. There is a limit of 10 seedlings per household, based on availability.
Finally, the community will hold its Annual Exchange Weekend from May 1 to 3. During this time, residents are invited to place unwanted items at the curb for others to take. Any items not claimed by the end of the weekend must be brought back in by the owners.
Environmental Compliance Coordinator Zack Moshonas noted that these events are part of a year-round effort to care for local natural spaces. The initiative also aligns with the municipality’s broader environmental goals, which include a commitment to developing a local Climate Action Plan and ongoing support for pollinator habitats through the Mayors’ Monarch Pledge.
