Help us prepare Parker River National Wildlife Refuge for the arrival of beach-nesting shorebirds! Join the Friends of Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and the Refuge staff for our annual Spring Beach Cleanup.

Winter storms have left debris and trash along our beautiful beaches, and we need your help to remove it before endangered Piping Plovers and Least Terns begin nesting.

Event Details:

•      Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025
• Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM ET (Come anytime, stay as long as you like!)
• Location: Parker River NWR Lot #1 Visitor Center (on Plum Island, not the main Visitor Center on Plum Island Turnpike)

What to Expect:

Check in at the Lot #1 Visitor Center upon arrival for orientation and instructions.

You’ll be assigned a section of the beach and provided with garbage bags. Limited trash pickers will also be available.

In addition to beach cleanup, volunteers can also participate in trail maintenance, including brush trimming along boardwalks and trash pickup along the Refuge road and salt marsh. Tools will be provided or bring your own.

Casella Waste Systems is generously providing a 15-cubic-yard dumpster, helping us manage the collected debris.

What to Bring:

• Work gloves
• Water and snacks
• Dress appropriately for the weather
• Optional: your own loppers, clippers, or rakes for trail maintenance

Important Notes:

• No registration or entry fee is required.
• No dogs are allowed on the Refuge to protect wildlife.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife, including Bald Eagles, Hawks, Snowy Owls, Barred Owls, shorebirds, loons, seabirds, and ducks.

Come join us and make a difference for Parker River National Wildlife Refuge!