CASS COUNTY — The Cass County Conservation District is inviting Dowagiac residents to participate in the Dowagiac River Cleanup.

The cleanup will take place from 4 to 6 p.m. May 1 at the Family Fare in Dowagiac.

Tons of trash and debris can be removed by participants that want to help clean the rivers upa, said event organizers.

Garbage along shorelines is not only unsightly, but it also can be harmful to wildlife. Many plants and animals depend on access to the water for survival, organizers said. Waste can prevent animals from reaching what they need. Additionally, animals can sometimes confuse garbage for food or a suitable home.

Waste enters a stream in a number of ways. Debris unintentionally blowing out of vehicles, flowing through storm drains, from recreational use and sometimes intentional dumping also pollutes local water resources, conservation district officials said.

Volunteering to clean the river can help with this problem, officials said.

The Cass County Conservation District asks that anyone planning on volunteering call ahead of time to RSVP at (269) 445-8641, ext. 5.   

Officials said participants should feel free to bring any equipment, such as waders, boots or lifejackets to make collecting the trash easier.  Snacks and beverages will be provided.