A volunteer holds a trash bag as she picks up litter along the Erie Canalway Trail.

April 17-19, 2026

cANAL cLEAN sWEEP

Celebrate Earth Day by joining PTNY and the NYS Canal Corporation, and thousands of volunteers to clean up trails, greenways, and parks across New York’s historic canal system.

CANAL CLEAN SWEEP

Why volunteer?

By volunteering, you help remove litter, improve public spaces, and prepare the Canalway Trail for the busy spring and summer seasons. Canal Clean Sweep is a hands-on opportunity to practice environmental stewardship, strengthen local communities, and contribute to the long-term health and beauty of one of our state’s most popular recreational resources.

GET INVOLVED

host A CLEANUP

As a host, you’ll pick a location to clean up, determine the date and time, submit a registration form, communicate with volunteers, arrive early to check participants in, distribute supplies (provided by PTNY), take pictures, and share event details. A host helps an event run smoothly and creates a welcoming, friendly atmosphere where community members can connect and clean up litter.

What we accomplished in 2025

VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION IS OPEN

Use the map below to explore Canal Clean Sweep events happening near you! Click on an event pin and select “Sign Up for This Event” to register—then keep an eye on your inbox for a confirmation email with all the details.