Jacobs Creek Watershed group plans tire, trail cleanups, wetland walks

The Jacobs Creek Watershed Association is partnering with American Architectural Salvage and Bridgestone Tires on Saturday, April 9 in an effort to clean up and properly dispose of scrap tires that are a significant source of pollution in the watershed.

Signs will direct those participating in the cleanup to a tire drop-off location at American Architectural Salvage, on West Main Street in Mt. Pleasant.

Pre-registration is required by visiting eventbrite.com and searching for JCWA Tire Round-Up.

Walk-ins won’t be accepted during the event, which is set for 9 a.m. to noon.

There is no cost to participate, but there is a limit of eight tires per person. Groups planning to organize a dumpsite cleanup are urged to contact the watershed association in advance by emailing denise@jacobscreekwatershed.org or calling 724-613-2592.

The cleanup, which is held biannually, is limited to regular-size car and lightweight truck tires, which must be removed from the rim. All tires should be clean and free of debris.

Volunteers will be available to help unload tires.

Through Bridgestone’s Tires4ward program, local recycler Liberty Tire will grind the collected tires into extrudable rubber. American Architectural Salvage manager Christine Marquis noted the material might end up as playground mulch or pavement, domestically or in developing countries.

Because of the cost normally associated with their proper disposal, tires are one of the most common items found in illegal dumpsites, the association noted.

In addition to releasing chemicals into the environment over time, dumped tires can collect stagnant water and serve as a breeding ground for mosquitoes that can spread diseases such as West Nile virus.

Trail litter targeted

The watershed association also is joining forces with Scottdale Bank & Trust for an Earth Day litter cleanup from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 19 along the Coal & Coke Trail in Scottdale. Bags and gloves will be provided.

To get involved, call the association or email info@jacobscreekwatershed.org.

Wetlands species featured

The watershed association is inviting nature lovers to explore a local wetlands habitat during a series of walks at the Jacobs Creek Environmental Education Area on White Bridge Road in Mt. Pleasant. The walks will be from 5:30 to 7 p.m. April 14, May 12 and June 9 (all are Thursdays).

Participants will learn about the birds, amphibians, reptiles, insects and plants that live in the area. They’re encouraged to bring a camera or binoculars to get a close-up view of the species.

Pre-registration is required for each walk by visiting eventbrite.com and searching for Wetland Walk.

All ages are welcome, but the presentation is geared toward ages 13 and older. The area is prone to minor flooding, so waterproof boots that can endure ankle-deep water and muddy areas are recommended for those joining the walks.

Feed the birds

Friday, April 15 is the deadline to place an online order for backyard birdseed offered by the watershed association. Locally grown by Maple Bottom Farms of Scottdale, the sunflower seeds cost $15 for a 15-pound bag.

To order, visit eventbrite.com and search for JCWA Bird Seed Sale.