Trash Bash Volunteers Haul in Nearly 2 Tons of Debris in Annual Cleanup

• 2 weeks ago
• General

For over two decades, the River des Peres Trash Bash has brought together volunteers committed to preserving the natural beauty of Missouri’s River des Peres Watershed. Spearheaded by Open Space STL, a St. Louis-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting and sustaining land and water resources, the annual cleanup has become a community tradition.

The 2023 event, held on October 28, united Open Space STL with the River des Peres Watershed Coalition and other local organizations to identify key cleanup sites across the region. Volunteers rolled up their sleeves in University City, Brentwood, Crestwood, St. Louis, and surrounding neighborhoods. Budget Dumpster supported the Brentwood location by donating a 20-yard dumpster, which volunteers quickly filled with nearly 2 tons of trash — including some quirky finds that later won prizes.

Over 500 Volunteers Help Restore Local Waterways

The 2023 Trash Bash saw an incredible turnout. More than 175 community members joined in on cleanup day, while nearly 400 students participated through school programs earlier in the week. Volunteers scoured public parks, trails, and green spaces, removing litter to create cleaner, safer areas for residents to enjoy.

“We’re not just picking up trash — we’re helping reduce pollution that could harm wildlife and affect our neighborhoods,” said Zoe Geist, chair of the River des Peres Watershed Coalition.

The collected debris ranged from the usual suspects — single-use plastics, cans, and bottles — to more unusual items like car parts, a plastic wagon, a weed trimmer, and even a giant plush whale. These standout discoveries won their finders prizes including gift baskets from Great Rivers Greenway, Alpine Shop gift cards, and tickets to the Missouri Botanical Garden as part of the event’s “Unique Trash Contest.”

Protecting Tributaries, One Cleanup at a Time

Brentwood, home to Deer Creek and Black Creek, both tributaries of the River des Peres, plays a key role in maintaining water quality throughout the watershed. By targeting these smaller streams, volunteers help stop trash from flowing downstream into major water bodies.

In total, over 6 tons of waste — including 1,200 pounds of metal — were collected during this year’s fall cleanups. Thanks to the conveniently located dumpster donated by Budget Dumpster at Brentwood Sports Complex, waste haulers were able to reduce fuel usage and streamline the disposal process.

“This setup made waste collection more efficient and reduced the need for long-distance hauling,” said Open Space STL Program Manager [First Name] Gibson. “It’s a smart way to manage logistics while maximizing impact.”

A Community Effort With Lasting Impact

Gibson emphasized that the event goes beyond just collecting trash. “The Trash Bash is about more than cleanup — it’s about building a community that cares for its environment,” she said. “Every year, we see people excited to get outside, get their hands dirty, and give back to their local watershed.”

Thanks to dedicated volunteers, supportive partners, and strategic planning, the River des Peres Trash Bash continues to be a meaningful and successful event that brings real environmental benefits to St. Louis County and beyond.

For over two decades, the River des Peres Trash Bash has brought together volunteers committed to preserving the natural beauty of Missouri’s River des Peres Watershed. Spearheaded by Open Space STL, a St. Louis-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting and sustaining land and water resources, the annual cleanup has become a community tradition.