As the weather warms up and the seasons change, there’s no better time to get outside and get involved with your local community. If you’re passionate about clean water, conservation, and preserving the natural beauty of our waterways, the Mountain Watershed Association (MWA) has a fantastic lineup of events for you to participate in this spring and summer. From roadside cleanups to 5k runs, hiking trips, and river cleanups, there are plenty of opportunities for you to make a direct impact on the environment and connect with others who share your passion for water stewardship. Here’s a look at some exciting events coming up, organized by MWA, and how you can get involved!
The first event kicking off the season is the Spring Roadside Cleanup on March 29th. If you’ve ever noticed trash scattered along the roadsides and thought, “I wish I could help clean this up,” this is your chance! MWA will be cleaning about 2 miles of Indian Creek Valley (ICV) Road from G&D Market to Champion, and they’ll provide all the necessary supplies, including trash bags, gloves, grabbers, and high-visibility vests. All you need to bring are comfortable walking shoes and your enthusiasm to help make a difference. What better way to spend a morning than improving the beauty of our local roads and contributing to cleaner waterways?
For nature lovers, Tim Palmer’s “Watching the River Run” slideshow presentation is a must-see event. On April 11th at 6:30 pm, award-winning author and photographer Tim Palmer will be showcasing his book, Watching the River Run: A Photographic Journey Down the Youghiogheny. Held at Wilderness Voyageurs, this slideshow offers a breathtaking, visual journey through the iconic Youghiogheny River, showcasing the vital connection between the river and its surrounding ecosystem. This is a perfect event for those looking to learn more about the Youghiogheny River and gain insight into the importance of preserving its natural state for future generations.
If you’re looking for something active and fun, don’t miss the Indian Creek Valley Gorge 5k on April 19th. Celebrate the completion of the ICV Trail gorge washout project with a scenic 5k fun run on the beautiful Indian Creek Valley Trail – Gorge Section (Mill Run). Whether you’re an avid runner or just enjoy getting outdoors, this event provides a great opportunity to experience the beauty of the gorge while supporting MWA’s ongoing efforts to maintain and enhance local water trails. It’s a fantastic way to get moving, enjoy nature, and support a great cause all at once!
For those who enjoy birdwatching and plant exploration, the Birds & Blooms Hike on May 3rd is a perfect way to connect with nature. Led by expert birders and botanists, this special hike along the Indian Creek Valley Trail will introduce you to the unique ecosystem of the valley in the springtime. You’ll learn about the diverse flora and fauna that make this area so special while getting some fresh air and exercise. It’s an educational and enjoyable way to appreciate the importance of preserving natural habitats for wildlife and water health.
One of the most exciting events for river lovers is the West Newton River Cleanup on May 17th. If you’ve ever wanted to make a real difference to the health of the Youghiogheny River, this is your chance! MWA will be floating out onto the river to clean up trash and tires, helping to preserve the river’s ecosystem. This hands-on experience allows volunteers to directly impact water health while having fun on the water. It’s a perfect opportunity to get involved, learn about water pollution, and take action in protecting our rivers.
As the summer heat kicks in, you can participate in the ICV Trail Golf Scramble on June 6th. Held at Donegal Highlands Golf Course, this event offers a fun day of golf and games, all while supporting the MWA’s efforts to close the trail gaps along the Indian Creek Valley Trail. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a day out, support a great cause, and spend time with friends and fellow community members.
Family Field Day at Laurel Hill State Park on June 28th is a great way for families to enjoy outdoor recreation and education together. MWA is hosting a day filled with activities for all ages, with a focus on conservation and environmental education. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to bond while learning about water conservation, the importance of healthy ecosystems, and how we can all do our part to protect the natural world. This event will leave everyone feeling inspired and more connected to the environment.
These events offer a variety of ways to engage with the community and protect water ecosystems. By participating, you’re not just having fun—you’re also directly contributing to cleaner rivers, healthier ecosystems, and a more sustainable future. Whether you’re joining a cleanup, running a 5k, or enjoying a hike, every small action adds up to make a big difference. H2O Water Network is proud to support these efforts, and we encourage everyone to join us in celebrating and protecting our water resources.
