GIVE BACK
TO THE BOW

Thousands of anglers enjoy Alberta's rivers every year. Imagine the impact if even a small percentage committed to stewardship.

  • Calgary - Cranston

    August 22, 2026, 9:00AM to Noon

    Co-hosted by the Alberta Wilderness Association, join us in the morning as we cleanup the banks of the Bow River in Cranston and get the chance to win an awesome door prizes provided by local fly shops and supporters.

    Sorry, while we pilot this project we’re unable to invite minors to participate. Due to our proximity to the river and potential for hazardous waste, this is an 18+ event.

    Signup Today Through the Alberta Wilderness Association

Why Volunteer?

The rivers are facing growing pressure from litter, development, and increasing recreational use.

By donating just a few hours of your time, you can help improve fish habitat, protect wildlife, and preserve the natural beauty of Alberta's river valleys.

No experience is required—just a willingness to help and a passion for healthy rivers.

Learn more
 

What to expect

Showing up is the hardest part. We make the rest easy.

  • Designated cleanup zones — so your time counts

  • All supplies on hand — bags, gloves, trash grabbers and data cards provided

  • Prizes and giveaways — our way of saying thank you for giving back

  • Community on the bank — meet the anglers and conservationists who care about these waters as much as you do

  • Impact you can measure — every bag counted, every stretch improved

The Bow gives us a lot. This is our chance to return the favour.

questions?

  • None at all. If you can walk a riverbank and carry a bag, you're qualified. We'll handle the rest.

  • Not at all. You just need to care about giving back to the river. Anglers, conservationists, and anyone who appreciates the watershed is welcome here.

  • As we pilot the project this season, events are open to adults 18 and over. We look forward to opening future events to families as the project grows.

    • Dress for the weather and wear closed-toe shoes or boots you don't mind getting muddy.

    • Long pants or waders are strongly recommended — grass along the riverbank can be tall and the terrain is uneven.

    • We'll supply gloves, trash grabbers, garbage bags, and data cards to track what we collect.

    • We'll have water on site but encourage you to bring your own — less waste that way.

  • We love dogs, but while we pilot the project, and for the safety of volunteers and wildlife along the riverbank we ask that you leave your pup at home for now.

  • Specific meeting point and parking details are included in your registration confirmation. Check your email the evening before for a full rundown of what to expect.

  • Events run from 9am to noon. Stay for the full stretch or as long as you're able — every minute you participate counts.

  • We work in light rain — rivers don't care about the forecast and neither do we. Events are only cancelled in the case of lightning or severe weather. We'll send a weather update the evening before so you can plan accordingly.

  • Sign up for our email list and follow us on Instagram. We'll announce events there first.