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River cleanup

2025 Cleanup Crawl

A series of cleanups that follow the Delaware River, raising awareness about ocean plastic pollution.

October 25 - 26, 2025

The Delaware River is the Largest Source of Ocean Plastic Pollution in North America

A 2021 peer-reviewed study showed that when compared to all other waterways in North America, the Delaware River is the single leading source of microplastic pollution. The study identified the top 1,000 rivers worldwide, and discovered that these rivers are the source of 80% of ocean plastic globally. 

In response to the study, the Mid-Atlantic chapters of the Surfrider Foundation are hosting a series of cleanups along the length of the Delaware over the course of one weekend. We seek to raise awareness about how ocean plastic doesn't just come from coastal areas. Plastic pollution often travels hundreds of miles before entering the ocean.

Over the weekend of October 25 & 26, we will hold cleanups that follow the Delaware River to the ocean. Together with a host of partners, the cleanups will be in:
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Saturday 10/25/2025

Petty's Island, NJ

We're partnering with NJ Natural Lands Trust for a nature walk and cleanup on Petty's Island. The island is located in the middle of the Delaware River, between Philadelphia, PA and Camden, NJ.

REGISTER HERE

Saturday Morning

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Sunday 10/26/2025

Newark, DE

Sunday starts with a cleanup at White Clay Creek State Park

Registration Here

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Sunday 10/26/2025

Dewey Beach, DE

We'll wrap up the Cleanup Crawl in Dewey. After our beach cleanup, Dewey Beer Company will host a "Dine and Donate" event!

REGISTER HERE

Plastic pollution often travels hundreds of miles before entering the ocean.