Rowing club launches first annual river cleanup

Sports

Mar 27

The Grand Rapids Rowing Club (GRRC) is hosting its first-ever Grand River cleanup event in partnership with Pioneer Water Treatment. Grand Rapids Rowing Club and Pioneer Water Treatment River Clean Up is open to the public and will occur on Saturday, April 12, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Volunteers will remove debris along the section of the Grand River near the LMCU Ballpark. The event will begin at Riverside Park, 2001 Monroe Ave NE in Grand Rapids.

To celebrate their efforts, participants are invited for a complimentary lunch after the cleanup.

“In addition to removing debris from the river, this event is about fostering a deeper connection between our community and the waterway we depend on,” said Jasper Lee, head coach, Grand Rapids Rowing Club. “We’re excited to launch this effort and hope to make it an annual tradition.”

As the event’s sponsor, Pioneer Water Treatment is providing funding, equipment, and volunteers to support the initiative. The company is committed to improving water quality in West Michigan and sees the cleanup as a meaningful way to give back.

“We are committed to protecting West Michigan’s waterways and ensuring cleaner, healthier water for future generations,” said Jeff Troutman, co-owner, Pioneer Water Treatment. “Partnering with the Grand Rapids Rowing Club for this initiative is a natural fit, allowing us to take direct action in preserving the Grand River while strengthening our community’s connection to the water.”

Beyond its recreational and competitive adult rowing programs, the GRRC operates a competitive junior rowing program open to athletes from any high school. The junior program is designed to set the foundation for athletes to row successfully in collegiate programs.

“Our junior team plays a key role in the future of rowing in Grand Rapids,” Lee said. “We hope this event benefits the river and build connections with potential sponsors and supporters of our young athletes.”

Clean up supplies will be provided. Volunteers are encouraged to wear long sleeves and pants.

Sponsorship opportunities and donations can be made at https://grandrapidsrowing.com/junior-sponsorships/.

To RSVP for the Grand Rapids Rowing Club and Pioneer Water Treatment River Clean Up, visit the GR Rowing Club Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/grandrapidsrowing.