What is it?
Krazy for the Kazoo is the name of our annual effort to cleanup streams and rivers in the Kalamazoo River Watershed where illegal dumping and litter are big problems. The cleanups take place throughout the year and are hosted by many different partners. We hope community volunteers will pick a date and location that work for you. Our list of cleanup events is always growing, so check back soon for other cleanups.
This watershed-wide event grew out of a successful cleanup program conducted in the Battle Creek, Charlotte, and Marshall areas for more than 15 years. The event has spread to many other locations including Otsego, Kalamazoo, Albion, and others. Powered entirely by volunteers, each year we clean up many miles of the river, take care of places with illegal dumping problems, plant new trees, remove problematic invasive plants, and much more.
How do I get involved?
Pick an event below, contact the event host to RSVP (optional), and show up ready to get to work! Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the weather and work conditions. Each event is unique, so contact the host directly if you need more information. RSVP is optional, but we ask those bringing large groups to contact your event host. Any supplies or tools needed for the cleanup will be provided.
Volunteers needed! Pick an event
We are always looking for new stream cleanup locations
Please contact us if your organization would like to become a host or if you would like to report a stretch of river where dumping is a problem.
Why clean?
The Kalamazoo River has a long history of pollution from many different human activities on land and in the water over the past 100 years or more. A group of dedicated municipalities, industries, and conservation organizations have been working together for over 15 years to solve pollution problems in the watershed. The Kalamazoo River Watershed Council works with this group on initiatives like Krazy for the Kazoo to curb pollution in our watershed and raise awareness about current issues. Together we seek to change the history of the river and we invite you to join us in creating a vibrant and healthy river system into the future.
We are particularly focused on stormwater from cities and runoff from agriculture that washes nutrients, sediments, and trash into our local streams, lakes, and rivers. This can lead to unsightly algae, poor fishing, and unpleasant beaches. When it comes to clean water, you make the difference!
Explore the various ways to support the Kalamazoo River Watershed Council today!
Thank you partners!
City of Battle Creek, City of Charlotte, City of Kalamazoo, City of Marshall, Marshall Area Conservation Committee, Battle Creek Area Clean Water Partners, Office of the Kalamazoo County Drain Commissioner, Kalamazoo River Watershed Council, LIFT Foundation, Interfaith Homes, Kalamazoo Paddle Club, Brite Eyes