The Woodlands Township community-wide Fall Sweep begins Sunday, October 29, 2023

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Woodlands Township Fall Sweep is a self-guided weeklong volunteer opportunity for individuals and family groups to target litter along pathways, waterways, and natural areas. The effort runs throughout The Woodlands from October 29 to November 4, 2023.

No registration is required. Bags, gloves and trash grabbers are available for loan from the Township Environmental Services Office at 8203 Millennium Forest Drive in The Woodlands, TX 77381. Please call 281-210-2058 to reserve supplies and schedule a pickup.

How Fall Sweep Works:

1. Gather your group and ready your gloves, bags and outdoor gear for a week of community beautification.
2. Choose a location in the community in need of litter cleanup. Check out suggested sites below for ideas.
3. Cleanup litter along tree lines and pathways. Report large or hazardous items to the Township through the 311 App or by calling 281-210-3800 during normal business hours.
4. Dispose of full bags at home or in a park trash can. Tie your trash bags tightly to protect sanitation workers. Don’t overstuff park trash cans as this leads to more litter.
5. Share your success by posting a photo on social media using #KeepTheWoodlandsBeautiful

Site Suggestions for Litter Hot Spots
Participants may choose their own cleanup locations. Parks, pathways and green spaces by shopping centers, businesses, churches, schools and waterways always need cleaning. Pay attention to tree lines to spot litter hiding under leaves and brush.

Safety

1. Wear protective gear - use gloves when picking up trash.
2. Be prepared for the elements - long pants, closed-toe shoes, hats, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.
3. Sanitize when you’re done - immediately wash your hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer after collecting litter.
4. Be aware of wildlife – avoid all snakes and wildlife. Observe from a distance and irritate tall grass or bushes with a stick before entering to scare off wildlife.
5. Know poisonous plants and avoid them – poison ivy is common along pathways and inside tree lines. Touching leaves and roots can cause a painful rash. Remember leaves of three, leave it be!

Interested in keeping The Woodlands beautiful all year? Organizations, businesses, schools, families or individuals that wish to keep our community looking clean and green are welcome to join the Adopt-a-Path program! To learn more about the program, please visit the Adopt-A-Path webpage on The Woodlands Township website.

The Woodlands Township is a special purpose district, providing fire protection, environmental services, parks and recreation, economic development, enhanced law enforcement services and more to over 120,000 residents and 2,000 businesses. Located 27 miles north of Houston, Texas, The Woodlands Township is committed to supporting the highest quality of life for its residents, businesses and visitors. Please visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov to learn more.