updated: Sept. 2, 2026
EcoAction Arlington Annual Fall Cleanup
Saturday, September 26, 2026
10:30 AM to 12 noon
Barcroft Park, 4214 Four Mile Run Drive
This fall, we are not just picking up litter—we are counting every piece to track pollution trends and protect our waterways with our Fall Stream Cleanup as part of the International Coastal Cleanup.
In 2025, according to the Ocean Conservancy, the majority of items recorded were single-use plastics. More than 24,000 pieces of unidentifiable or uncategorized debris items were also recorded. Items identified at our previous cleanups include bikes, scooters, underwear, and an animal skull! What will we find in 2026? Sign up today to help us keep trash out of our waterways and track tends to mitigate stream pollution.
The Annual Trash Tally and Cleanup is an annual signature EcoAction Arlington event held every year in conjunction with Clean Virginia Waterways in the Fall, usually September. In 2026 it will happen on Saturday, September 26 (rescheduled from Sept. 19) from 10:30 AM to 12 noon at Barcroft park, with a raindate of Sept. 27.
Sponsored globally by the Ocean Conservancy, the ICC prompts volunteers to become citizen scientists by collecting data about the litter they remove. This helps identify trends and solutions to reduce plastic pollution.
EcoAction Arlington reports the data collected with Arlington County. Clean Virginia Waterways shares the data with policy makers, local and state government and others working to reduce litter.
We ask that you wear sturdy shoes that may get wet, bring a reusable water bottle (no single-use bottles please), your own gloves, and any sunscreen/insect spray that you may wish to use. EcoAction Arlington will have on hand extra gloves and all the trash and recycle bags needed.
This is a great event for families and groups! All ages are welcome. Adults must accompany children under 18. Registration required.
Here’s a look at past Fall Stream Cleanups:
Interested in Getting a Native Tree Planted in Your Yard? Get a head start on our next cycle!