Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper launches 'Solo Sweep Challenge' for 'Scajaquada September'

Press Release 

It’s time to get cleaning around Scajaquada Creek. Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper is excited to announce the launch of its "Solo Sweep Challenge," a monthlong initiative to further protect and restore the creek and surrounding communities.

Taking place throughout the annual “Scajaquada September,” the challenge encourages people to take action by cleaning trash at their own convenience around the creek, while collecting data on the litter they pick up. The data collected can be used to advocate for stronger water protection policies and actions. Participants will also have the chance to win tickets to the upcoming “Freshwater Flicks” on Oct. 5. 

To participate in the “Solo Sweep Challenge,” individuals can sign up any time during September and learn more at www.ScajaquadaSeptember.com. 

“Scajaquada September” is Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper's monthlong tribute to Scajaquada Creek. In addition to the “Solo Sweep Challenge,” the month offers lunch and learn webinars, a slow roll, a speaker series, and concludes with “Freshwater Flicks” presenting the Wild & Scenic Film Festival.

The “Solo Sweep Challenge” invites people to grab a trash bag and gloves, head out to their favorite spot within the Scajaquada Creek watershed, and collect litter. This can be done on their own or with a group of people at any point during September. People can also go out as many times as they want – the more trash removed, the better. By participating in this solo or small group effort, individuals will help clean up the communities, prevent trash from entering the waterway, and enjoy the flexibility to engage in environmental stewardship on their own schedules. There are many parks and walkways along the creek’s 13 miles, from Lancaster to Buffalo, that offer great public spots to visit and search for litter.

Participants will use the Clean Swell app to track and record trash they collect. This data collection is crucial, as it helps Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper advocate for policy changes and resource allocations that address pollution sources and improve water quality. The data will be used to highlight the ongoing environmental challenges facing the Scajaquada Creek and push for long-term solutions. 

"Scajaquada Creek is a vital part of our community's natural heritage, and we need everyone's help to protect it," said Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper Volunteer Coordinator Brittni Anderson. "The ‘Solo Sweep Challenge’ allows individuals to make a tangible impact while contributing valuable data that supports our advocacy efforts." 

“Solo Sweepers” will receive detailed instructions on how to safely and effectively collect trash, as well as how to use the Clean Swell app for data reporting. On Tuesday, Sept. 17, there will be a mid-month virtual check-in to share details and discuss things people have noticed while joining the challenge. Links for the virtual gatherings can be found on the registration page.

For more information or to join the “Solo Sweep Challenge” and other activities during “Scajaquada September,” visit www.ScajaquadaSeptember.com.

Let’s make a difference together, one sweep at a time! 

Buffalo Niagara Waterkeeper is a community-based nonprofit organization that protects and restores local waters and surrounding ecosystems for the benefit of current and future generations. For more information, visit www.bnwaterkeeper.org.