On Saturday, June 1st, the Friends of the Detroit River sponsored the first annual Lower Detroit River Cleanup Event, which was organized with the goal of picking up litter along the vast stretches of bays, islands and dikes near the mouth of Lake Erie. According to event organizer Bob Burns, "This is the first time such a large-scale undertaking has been attempted, and it is only fitting given the amount of interest that has developed over the past few years concerning the protection and preservation of the last remaining natural resources left in the lower river."

With the addition of the American Heritage Rivers Designation by the President of the United States and the newly-created International Wildlife Refuge here in the river, people are starting to take notice. Boating, bird watching, fishing, camping, swimming, hunting and all forms of outdoor activities are bringing a new sense of value to this area. With the tougher pollution laws that were enacted in the mid-70s, the lower river has reaped the benefits of cleaner air and water quality. Fish populations have rebounded. Today, the Detroit River can boast some of the best walleye fishing in the country, attracting professional fishing tournaments from around the United States and bringing millions of dollars to the local economy.

Federal, state and local governments and local organizations are spearheading efforts to help redevelop some of the old industrial shoreline sites into areas with more sustainable value. "Quality of life" has become the catch phrase that seems to capture the vision of many area individuals who are working to find equilibrium between the needs of industry, the community and the environment.

This year's cleanup event was a major success due to the contributions and efforts of many local communities, companies, groups and residents who pitched in and helped out. With well over 100 volunteers and nearly 30 boats, participants were able to collect several tons of litter from along the shoreline. Trenton Rotary Park, along the Trenton Channel, was the location where this year's event was staged. A large tent housed many interesting displays and provided an area where lunch was served. Everyone who attended enjoyed the day out on the water and is looking forward to next year's event.