Stratford residents are invited to help clean up the banks of the Avon River on April 18, 2026, as part of a new community initiative to remove winter debris. The First Annual Avon Riverbank Cleanup will take place from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at The Boathouse, located at 30 York Street.
The event is hosted by The Boathouse in partnership with local realtor Shane Oosterhoff and the Downtown Stratford Business Improvement Area. Organizers are encouraging locals to help clear waste from the riverbanks and surrounding park areas to support the health of the waterway.
All cleaning supplies will be provided to volunteers on the day of the event. As a thank you for their efforts, participants will receive a pass for a free tour and boat ride. While the cleanup is free to join, organizers will also be accepting cash donations to support Climate Momentum, an all-volunteer group in Stratford and Perth County dedicated to climate action.
The event follows a challenging period for the local landmark. In the summer of 2025, the Avon River and Lake Victoria experienced a significant drop in water levels after debris blocked the RT Orr Dam. The incident forced The Boathouse to suspend its recreational boat rentals and tours, highlighting the importance of maintaining the river.
