The Merrimack Valley Planning Commission is excited to share some project updates for the Merrimack River Cleanup Initiative. Since we announced the project launch early this spring, the Cleanup Initiative has been working diligently to mobilize and get booms, and boots, on the ground (and in the water!) Five partnered municipalities, Tyngsborough, Andover, Lawrence, Methuen, and Haverhill, have partnered with MVPC to install floating river booms along their stretches of the water.  

These booms, commonly used in harbors and open waters, are now helping to trap floating debris such as plastic bags, Styrofoam, and other litter before it can flow downstream. Once a month, the booms are cleared and reset, ensuring they stay effective throughout the summer and fall. By removing this trash and waste, the river is not only more enjoyable for river recreators, but we are also directly removing harmful contaminants and pollutants that threaten the fragile ecosystems within the Merrimack, and the ocean habitats it ultimately feeds. 

As part of this initiative, the participating communities will also champion their own shoreline cleanup day this summer and fall. Community volunteers are invited to lace up their boots, grab some gloves, and join municipal staff in clearing trash that washes up along the riverbanks. By participating in these cleanups, community leaders and members help restore the natural beauty of the river and also get a chance to connect with their neighbors and take pride in restoring the beauty of the Merrimack. 

If you’d like to get involved in a shoreline cleanup day, check out the list of upcoming community cleanup days below. 

Shoreline Cleanup Event Calendar 

For real-time updates on project metrics, and upcoming and updated shoreline cleanup opportunities, follow this link to our project website: https://mvpc.org/merrimack-river–cleanup-initiative/.