Yosemite National Park is a place of such stunning scenery and natural beauty that it's alarming to imagine visitors would trash the place.
But, sadly they do -- and so the Yosemite Climbing Assn. is requesting volunteers to lend a hand picking up other people's refuse during the eighth annual "Yosemite Facelift," taking place Sept. 21-25. Participants will assist picking up litter at various locations in the park, including roadways, trails, climbing routes, the river corridor, and in parking, camping and lodging areas.
Last year, more than 1,000 Facelift volunteers collected approximately 172,000-pounds of debris -- of which about 80% was recycled -- and cleaned up in excess of 160 miles of roadway, 100 miles of trails and 20 miles of river area.
Interested volunteers should sign up at the booth in front of the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday. A second check-in station will be located at Lembert Dome Parking Area in Tuolumne Meadows, and will be open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Friday through Sunday.
Crew leaders will be on hand to distribute trash bags, litter sticks and gloves and organize work groups.
Cleanup participants will have access to all sorts of events, including a daily raffle, evening programs and an end of event reception with complimentary food and drinks and live music.
Those unable to participate during the cleanup but still interested in helping may make a tax deductible donation to help pay for costs associated with the effort. Donations can be made to the Yosemite Climbing Assn, P.O. Box 89, Yosemite, CA 95389.
I applaud the efforts of the organizers and volunteers, though find it bothersome that people can visit such a wonderous treasure and not have the decency to pick up after themselves.
Image of some of the debris collected last year courtesy of Yosemite Climbing Assn.
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