2025 Big Sweep at Lake Johnson

Sign up and share with the Friends of Lake Johnson!  https://raleighnc.gov/parks-volunteer .

The annual Lake Johnson Park NC Big Sweep event invites participants to walk or paddle about the park to pick up trash.

• Check-In: Volunteers will check-In with Lake Johnson staff at 9 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. at the Thomas G. Crowder Woodland Center.
• Cleanup: Once checked in, volunteers can head to the lakefront and begin cleaning.
• Post-Cleanup: As a thank you for volunteering, the Friends of Lake Johnson Association will be providing food and beverages until 1 p.m. We will also be taking a group photo to show off your hard work!

Duties and Impact:

Volunteers will use pickup sticks, gloves, and trash bags to collect and dispose of litter within the lake and along the shore. Improperly discarded litter is a serious environmental hazard. It pollutes the water we use and depend on, it has the potential to cause injury to wildlife, and it is simply an eyesore. By removing litter, we can help provide a healthier environment for wildlife and citizens to enjoy.

 

Work Environment:

We will be working outside in the elements. There is the possibility for uneven ground. There will be a restroom on site.

 

Requirements:

• Ages 12+. Those under 18 must have a parent/guardian present
• Signed digital Terms and Conditions or a paper release form. Those under 18 will need a parent/guardian signature
• Only those ages 16+ may operate a paddle craft without an adult
• Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
• Shore cleanup volunteers should wear close-toed sneakers or hiking boots
• Bring your own filled water bottle and begin hydrating the day before

Other Instructions:

• Volunteers are welcome to bring their own paddle craft or may borrow one. These will be available on a first come, first served basis
• Cleanup sticks, trash bags, and gloves will be provided
• Bring your own filled water bottle and begin hydrating the day before
• Registered volunteers will receive additional information (such as parking and meeting locations) in their confirmation email
• Registered volunteers’ information will be shared with our event partner, Wake County Big Sweep

 

Per department policy, this volunteer opportunity is not to be used towards court-appointed/ suggested community service hours.