More than 100 pounds of tobacco product waste collected during past five annual events

Vancouver, Wash. – Volunteer programs for Clark County and the city of Vancouver are seeking volunteers for the sixth annual “The Butt Stops Here” cleanup on Saturday, Oct. 26. The cleanup event, which removes cigarettes butts and other litter from local parks, is being held in conjunction with national Make a Difference Day.

Those interested in volunteering can sign up for whichever park they would like to clean up, and should meet at that site starting at 9 a.m. Groups will meet back at 12 noon to weigh their bags of cigarette butts. Volunteers can also enjoy warm beverages provided by Dutch Bros, and a coupon for pizza from Blind Onion.

Since the first “The Butt Stops Here” cleanup in Oct. 2011, volunteers have removed more than 100 pounds of cigarette butts from both Clark County parks and city of Vancouver parks and open spaces. Cigarette butts each weigh about one-tenth of an ounce, and are the most commonly found litter in the world and account for an estimated 32% of litter in parks and recreation areas.

“We had a great group of people show up to help last year,” said Volunteer Program Assistant Dora Hernandez. “We heavily rely on volunteers to make this event successful, so we’re hoping for another great turnout this year.”

Volunteers need to dress for the weather and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own gloves, bur organizers will provide gloves and garbage bags for the event.

 

###

CONTACT
Magan Reed
Senior Communications Specialist
Public Works
564.397.4398
magan.reed@clark.wa.gov