Ohio & Erie Canal Cleanup

We rely on the help of volunteers like you to keep the Ohio & Erie Canalway, Towpath Trail, and Connector Trails clean, healthy, and beautiful for the welfare of local wildlife, residents, trail users and park goers! On average, more than 3 tons of trash have been removed annually since the program began in the early 2000s, transforming destinations along the trail like Summit Lake and Ohio & Erie Canal Park.
Join us at Summit Lake Park on designated Saturdays between 9:00 a.m. and noon, unless otherwise stated. The 2026 schedule is as follows:
-Saturday, March 14
-Saturday, April 11
-Saturday, May 30
-Saturday, August 1
-Saturday, September 5
-Saturday, October 24
Check in with OECC staff at the park pavilion for safety remarks and supplies. All supplies are provided, we just need you! Trash bags, gloves, trash grabbers, snacks and trash haul away services are taken care of. Parking is available at the Summit Lake Community Center (380 W. Crosier Street) or Reach Opportunity Center (390 W. Crosier Street).
The Ohio & Erie Canal Cleanups are supported by: Akron Community Foundation, Barberton Community Foundation, Bridgestone, Cargill, City of Akron, Dupont, and Enbridge.