Volunteers Mark Earth Day with 124-Acre Community Cleanup

More than 100 volunteers fanned out across parks and trails in Loudoun County this weekend, collecting litter and debris over 124 acres in a large-scale Earth Day cleanup aimed at protecting local waterways and public spaces.

The effort, organized by New Heaven & New Earth Church in partnership with Loudoun County Parks, Recreation and Community Services, brought together families and community members for a day of service focused on environmental stewardship.

Participants worked across a diverse landscape that included a 30-acre active park with sports fields and a playground, as well as a 94-acre passive park featuring wooded hiking trails along the Potomac River. Volunteers also cleaned sections of the Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail, a popular route for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

“We had over 100 volunteers sign up,” said Keegan Burgh, one of the event’s participants. “With Earth Day in mind, we wanted to protect the earth, protect our local environment, and preserve this park and our community for future generations.”

Organizers said the cleanup was motivated in part by growing concerns about the impact of litter on water quality, agriculture and public health. The nearby Potomac River, a key source of drinking water for Loudoun County and the surrounding region, was a particular focus.

“Every piece of trash removed is a step toward a cleaner, brighter future,” organizers noted, emphasizing the broader environmental importance of local action.

Earth Day, observed annually around the world, promotes environmental protection and awareness. This year’s event highlighted how grassroots efforts can make a tangible difference, organizers said.

The church also expressed appreciation for its partnership with county officials, crediting the collaboration with helping expand the reach of the cleanup.

Leaders of the effort said they hope the event inspires continued community involvement and encourages others to take part in similar initiatives.

“This shows you don’t need a large organization to make an impact,” organizers said. “You just need people who care about their community.”

The cleanup is part of a broader push to foster unity and environmental responsibility across the region, with organizers aiming to build a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable future for Northern Virginia and the greater Washington, D.C., area.