City, Partners to Host 11th Annual Big Sioux River Cleanup
Published on April 15, 2026
The City of Sioux Falls, in partnership with Friends of the Big Sioux River, will host the 11th annual Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is the city’s largest coordinated litter-removal effort, bringing together community volunteers each year to help protect and clean up the Big Sioux River.
During the two-hour cleanup, volunteers will remove trash and debris from recreational areas and along the banks of the Big Sioux River.
“The Big Sioux River is one of our community’s most valuable natural resources, and events like this cleanup are essential to keeping it healthy and enjoyable for everyone,” said Josh Peterson, environmental services manager for the city. “We’re grateful for the continued support from volunteers who take pride in protecting our environment and making a visible difference in our parks and greenway.”
Volunteers may choose from seven check-in locations to begin their cleanup efforts. At the check-in locations, participants will sign a waiver and receive supplies such as maps, trash bags and plastic gloves.
The following city parks have been selected as check-in locations:
- Falls Park
- Beadle Greenway Park (Volunteers especially needed here)
- Rotary Park
- Yankton Trail Park
- Sertoma Park
- Legacy Park
- Elmwood Park
“It is important to promote the environmental, recreational and economic use and enjoyment of the Big Sioux River for future generations and this event does just that,” said Travis Entenman, executive director of Friends of the Big Sioux River. “Community involvement is critical to achieving our vision and this event is a win-win through strong partnerships across the community.”
The cleanup is open to participants of all ages. However, children younger than 18 must be supervised by an adult.
Organizers strongly encourage volunteers to register in advance. Preregistration helps streamline the check-in process and ensures adequate supplies are available at each site.
To learn more or to register, visit siouxfalls.gov/greenway-cleanup.