Blog: Boise River clean up crews keeping busy with lots (and lots) of trash

BOISE, Idaho (CBS 2) — Scott Koberg, directer of Ada County Parks and Waterways, and a small crew is on its bi-weekly river cleanup of the Boise River.

Today (Tuesday), crews are out picking up trash and identifying problem areas along the popular stretch between Barber and Ann Morrison parks. We'll be tagging along, highlighting the annual problem of trash in the Boise River as well as learn how floaters can take better care of the river.

Stay tuned for updates.

10:45 a.m.

Our crew is waiting for Ada County officials. Within minutes, multiple cans and bottles found along the river's edge near Barber Park.

11:09 a.m.

Most of the trash near Barber Park is up 10-15 feet from the river's edge. Most of the trash seems to be in the trees away from the bank where you can see the debris.

11:17 a.m.

Along the banks in and through the trees that run alongside the river, there are trails, pits, and rocks formed for making campfires. These aren’t built by park officials but poorly trampled trails made by people recreating. Along them, we’ve found beer bottles, beer cans, candy wrappers, soda bottles, rope, and a diaper.

11:25 a.m.

11:30 a.m.

A kayaker floats by and gives us his opinion on the issue.

11:38 a.m.

Koberg arrives with his crew, shows us the trash they've already collected, and answers a few questions.

They started picking up debris in 2017, and a big culprit along with general food and beverage trash was discarded floating equipment.

11:50 p.m.

The group takes off and tells Ryan of some of the more interesting things they have found while floating. In the raft with Scott and Ryan is Jarrod Mathews, maintenance mechanic (on the right), and Chris Osborn, maintenance supervisor (on the right).

12:04 p.m.

We find some lost and/or left behind items from floaters who more than likely stopped on their trip to hang out and left some things behind.

Scott takes the time to inform us on what else they have found in the river and if you have lost anything, like a phone... well, you may be able to get it back.

12:18 p.m.

The group stops at a bank to collect trash and a torn-up raft. Anyone lose a river shoe recently? Ada County Parks and Waterways offers some good intel on what you should look for when purchasing a river-ready raft.

12:28 p.m.

The trip ends for CBS 2 staff but the group continues on. They are the only ones who patrol and clean up the whole 6-mile "floating-stretch" of the river. Volunteer efforts have been made throughout the year cleaning up the easier parts of the river.

The best way to keep the river clean is for everyone to pack out what they pack in. It is just that simple!