Giving Back to St. Louis: Volunteering at the River des Peres Trash Bash

Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 9:00–11:00 AM | St. Louis Riverfront

One of the things I appreciate most about living in St. Louis is the number of people and organizations working to make our community a better place. Whether it’s supporting local businesses, preserving historic neighborhoods, or protecting our parks and natural spaces, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved.

This Saturday, October 24, I’ll be spending my morning volunteering at the River des Peres Trash Bash, helping clean up areas along the Mississippi Riverfront.

The event is organized through Open Space STL, with our cleanup taking place near the Living Lands & Waters Mississippi River Institute Barge.

What Is the River des Peres Trash Bash?

The River des Peres Trash Bash brings volunteers together to remove litter and debris from parks, waterways, and surrounding areas throughout the River des Peres Watershed.

It’s a hands-on opportunity to make a difference in our local environment while spending a couple of hours outdoors with others who care about St. Louis.

Our particular cleanup will take place along the Mississippi Riverfront near the Living Lands & Waters barge. It’s a land-based cleanup, so there’s no need for a canoe or kayak.

Volunteers will help collect trash and debris that would otherwise remain along the riverfront or potentially make its way into our waterways.

Why I’m Getting Involved

I’ve lived and worked in St. Louis for years, and I’ve always appreciated the character of our neighborhoods, parks, and public spaces.

As a real estate agent, I spend a lot of time talking about what makes different parts of St. Louis special. But I also think it’s important to contribute to the community beyond my day-to-day work.

Our rivers are an important part of the region’s history and identity, and keeping them clean benefits everyone.

I’m looking forward to getting outside, putting in a little work, and hopefully making a noticeable difference along this stretch of the riverfront.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026

Time: 9:00–11:00 AM (volunteer check-in begins at 8:45 AM)

Location: Living Lands & Waters Mississippi River Institute Barge
50 S. Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard
St. Louis, MO 63102

What to Expect:

• A two-hour, land-based cleanup along the Mississippi Riverfront.
• Gloves and trash bags provided for volunteers.
• A volunteer T-shirt for those who register online.
• Some slopes and brush, so sturdy shoes and good mobility are recommended.
• An opportunity to meet other St. Louis residents interested in protecting our environment.

Volunteers should dress for the weather, wear clothes that can get dirty, and bring a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, and bug spray.

The cleanup is scheduled to take place rain or shine, although high river levels or severe weather could affect the event.

A Little Celebration Afterward

Following the cleanup, volunteers are invited to a picnic at Deer Creek Park from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

There will be food, drinks, and an opportunity to spend some time with fellow volunteers.

The celebration also includes Passport to Clean Water, a youth-focused activity, along with a trash contest recognizing some of the biggest and most unusual items collected during the cleanup.

It’s a nice way to wrap up the morning and recognize everyone’s efforts.

Want to Get Involved?

If you’re interested in volunteering with Open Space STL, I encourage you to check out their opportunities.

Organizations like Open Space STL and Living Lands & Waters do important work throughout our region, and volunteering is a great way to support those efforts.

Event information:
https://volunteer.openspacestl.org/need/detail/?need_id=1325720

Registration for this particular cleanup closes October 23, and the event page currently lists registration as closed. Even if you can’t participate this weekend, there are other opportunities to get involved with local environmental projects throughout the year.

I’m looking forward to doing my small part this Saturday.

Taking care of St. Louis isn’t just about the homes and neighborhoods we live in. It’s also about protecting the parks, rivers, and public spaces that make this city a great place to call home.