Bluffton Gears Up for 35th Annual Beach Sweep/River Sweep This Saturday

Join the Community for the 35th Annual Beach Sweep/River Sweep in Bluffton

Bluffton, S.C. is buzzing with excitement as the community prepares for the 35th Annual Beach Sweep/River Sweep set for this Saturday, September 21st, from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. This cherished event is not just a clean-up; it’s a chance for residents, kayakers, boaters, and business owners to come together to celebrate and protect the beautiful waterways that the Lowcountry is known for.

Where to Meet

The gathering spot for this year’s sweep will be Oyster Factory Park, located at 63 Wharf Street on the stunning May River. It’s hard to think of a more beautiful backdrop for such an important cause!

A Tradition of Caring

For over three decades, this statewide event has engaged thousands of volunteers each year, making it South Carolina’s largest one-day litter clean-up. Bluffton has proudly participated for the past 16 years, allowing locals to foster environmental stewardship.

Nicole Wright, the Town’s Stormwater Technician, emphasizes the significance of this event. “These events help create a sense of community as they educate residents about town and regional resources,” she said. “We’re deeply grateful for the community’s involvement — they clearly share our concern for the May River.” The message is clear: our waterways are not just resources; they’re vital parts of our culture and identity here in Beaufort County.

A Fun and Engaging Experience

Everyone is encouraged to join in, and the Town of Bluffton is making it easier than ever. They will provide coffee, snacks, and all the cleanup supplies needed: gloves, bags, sunscreen, and water. All you need to do is bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands a little dirty!

To kick off the morning, look forward to a complimentary cup of May River Blend coffee or hot chocolate, courtesy of Corner Perk. After all, nothing fuels a clean-up like a warm beverage!

What to Expect

The cleanup will include both land and water-based activities. Volunteers will be picking up litter around the Historic District and on the May River itself. If you’re part of a local kayak club or simply love spending time on the water, you can help from your own boat or kayak. Just be sure to arrive by 8:30 a.m. to have enough time for setup.

As participants gather litter, they won’t just be cleaning up — they’ll also become citizen-scientists. Each volunteer will document the type and amount of litter they collect, contributing to a larger database. This cumulative data is invaluable, enabling communities to identify litter sources and address them with focused education efforts.

How to Get Involved

No formal registration is needed, but if you’re bringing a large group, it would be helpful to notify Nicole Wright so event organizers can prepare adequately. You can reach her by phone at 843-706-4569 or via email at nwright@townofbluffton.com.

Let’s Keep Bluffton Beautiful!

So, mark your calendars for Saturday, September 21st! Whether you’re a family, a group of friends, or part of a local organization, there’s a place for you at this year’s Beach Sweep/River Sweep. Come ready to enjoy the fresh air and make a difference in Bluffton’s natural spaces! Together, we can take pride in keeping our community beautiful and vibrant.