River cleanup program continues despite loss of grant

St. Joseph County Conservation District officials have good news and bad news to share regarding the 2026 river cleanup program.

Agency director Carolyn Grace said the state grant that supports the four-times-a-year cleanup was not extended this year. Nonetheless, Grace said the conservation district plans to self-fund the events to support what will be the 16th summer of river cleanups.

The full 2026 schedule has not been established. The date of the first cleanup, however, is set for June 19, a Friday. The focus will be a stretch of the Fawn River, upstream to Fawn River Kayak Guide and Rental, in the 30000 block of East Fawn River Road in Fawn River Township.

Grace said further details – including additional dates and locations – will be announced later.

Grace said she is optimistic that a strong core of volunteers will contribute to the success of the 2026 program.