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Globe community partners launch year-long forest cleanup

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The Globe Ranger Station of the U.S. Forest Service, Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation, Globe Trash Mob, Capstone Pinto Valley Mine and Love Where You Love organizations are proud to announce the launch of a year-long forest cleanup initiative aimed at preserving and protecting our National Public Lands. In conjunction with National Public Lands Day in September, this extensive effort is designed to engage the community in monthly cleanups and educational events that focus on keeping our local forests clean, safe, and beautiful.

This initiative represents a sustained commitment to the stewardship of our public lands. Volunteers will have the opportunity to participate in monthly themed cleanup events that not only remove litter but also raise awareness about the importance of conservation. The initiative is a call to action for the community to unite to preserve our forests’ natural beauty. The cleanups are set for Fridays from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. to encourage youth, local businesses, and organizations to incorporate service into their workweek, freeing up their weekends for other activities.

Featured events begin Friday, September 27 with “Go Wild Over Trash,” at the end of

Russell Road in Globe. Volunteers will help remove an abandoned boat and other litter along the road. Participants may receive special swag from the U.S. Forest Service, and the Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation will raffle off a prize to one lucky volunteer.

Future events will include:

  1. “Boo to Litter: Go ‘Haunt for Trash with Woodsy,” November 1

Get into the Halloween spirit by cleaning up the forest in costume! Woodsy the Owl will join the effort, and the Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation will sponsor a costume contest. Sweet treats and a raffle will be part of the fun. Location to be determined.

  1. “Woodsy’s Give a Hoot Holiday Challenge,” December-January

Location – Anywhere in your neighborhood or favorite outdoor spot. During the holiday season, we encourage community members to organize their own cleanups and share photos of their efforts on our Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/groups/258088903887839 or https://www.facebook.com/groups/293525911853166. All online participants will be entered into a drawing for a prize.

  1. “Wild Love for the Woods Clean-up,” Feb. 14, 2025

Show your love for the forest on Valentine’s Day by joining us for a special cleanup event. Volunteers will receive treats, giveaways, and a chance to win a raffle prize from the Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation. Location to be determined.

  1. “Go Green With USFS,” March 14, 2025

Go green for this lively forest cleanup. This event is a great way to demonstrate your commitment to keeping our green spaces litter-free. Location to be determined.

For more information on how to get involved in these monthly events, please contact:

Sheryl Cormack, recreation management specialist, Tonto National Forest Globe Ranger District, 928-425-7189 or sheryl.cormack@usda.gov; or Regina Ortega, community engagement coordinator, Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation, 808-373-0032 or leonardir001@gmail.com.

About the partners:

USFS Globe Ranger Station: Dedicated to managing and preserving national forests, the USFS plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and sustainability of our public lands.

Cathy Sanchez-Canez Memorial Foundation: Committed to community service and environmental conservation, the foundation honors Cathy Sanchez-Canez’s legacy through ongoing local initiatives.

Capstone Pinto Valley Mine: A mining company that prioritizes sustainability and community engagement in its operations.

Love Where You Live: An organization focused on fostering local pride and environmental stewardship through community-driven efforts.

Join us as we launch a year of action to protect and preserve our forests. Together, we can make a lasting impact.