Despite Spring Cleanup cancellation, locals taking matters into their own hands

PRINCE GEORGE — The most recent local event to not take place as planned is the annual Spring Cleanup put on by REAPS. It usually runs the last weekend of April and aims to beautify the city from garbage collected over winter but some are taking matters into their own hands.

“Residents have been going to the streets when they are walking the dog, taking the kids out, or going for a stroll, and they are taking a garbage bag and picking up litter in their own communities which is great,” explained Terri McClymont, REAPS Executive Director.

One Hart family that has been doing a similar idea for years is Stan and Janet Wheeldon. It has been a source of frustration but something they say needs to be done.

“Every time I see garbage or beer cans or whatever I think how can you make these people stop and think about your neighbours,” Stan said before Janet continued, “Why are people throwing it out [on the ground]? Why not just keep it in your vehicle, take it home, and dispose of it?”