JACKSON, NJ — Volunteers across the Barnegat Bay Watershed will take to streets, parks, and shorelines Thursday for the Barnegat Bay Blitz, an annual large-scale litter cleanup aimed at protecting New Jersey’s land and water from trash pollution.
One cleanup will take place along the Toms River’s Dove Mill Branch in Jackson Township along the Purple Heart Trail.
Set for 2 p.m. at the Bunker Hill Bogs Recreation Area in Jackson, the event will gather residents, students, and community groups at dozens of sites across the watershed to remove debris ranging from cigarette butts and bottles to larger discarded items. The local Jackson cleanup, led by Captain Peyton Curley, will begin at the Purple Heart Trail parking lot just off East Veterans Highway.
Litter has become a visible and persistent issue throughout the Barnegat Bay region, entering the watershed through storm drains, road runoff, and illegal dumping. Organizers say the Blitz plays a crucial role in mobilizing volunteers to address the problem at the ground level.
Blitz participants will be equipped with tools and guidance from site captains, with volunteers bringing their own gear for kayak or canoe-based cleanups where needed. All participants are required to sign a waiver and follow safety tips provided by organizers.
The cleanup initiative has become a tradition in the area, often drawing youth involvement. One example includes Barnegat High School students joining the effort, demonstrating the Blitz’s focus on environmental education as well as direct action.
Students and volunteers lead hands-on conservation
At previous Blitz events, students and volunteers have been seen holding landscaping equipment and wearing shirts bearing the message, “It’s about helping each other,” underscoring the community-driven spirit behind the cleanup.
The Barnegat Bay Blitz is part of a broader statewide campaign to reduce pollution in New Jersey’s watersheds, and organizers expect turnout to remain strong at this year’s coordinated efforts.
Key Points
- Barnegat Bay Blitz cleanup set for April 17 at Bunker Hill Bogs Recreation Area in Jackson, NJ.
- Volunteers target litter throughout the watershed, removing bottles, cigarette butts, and large debris.
- Cleanup efforts include land and water-based activities led by local captains like Peyton Curley.
Organizers say every bag of trash removed during the Blitz helps protect the environment and build stronger community ties.
Hundreds rally to fight litter in NJ as Barnegat Bay Blitz hits streets and shorelines.
