THE WOODLANDS, TEXAS (March 18, 2016) – The Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-Off is the single largest, one-day cleanup event in the state and serves as Texas’s signature event for the Great American Cleanup, the nation's biggest community improvement program. On Saturday, April 9, 2016, The Woodlands Earth Day GreenUP will be a part of the annual event in recognition of the 30th anniversary of the Don’t Mess with Texas campaign.

Neighborhoods, clubs, scouts, church groups, schools, families and individuals are invited to take part in the cleanup effort that targets trash on pathways, waterways and natural areas.

“This is a fun team-building activity that benefits our community and the environment,” notes Kathie Herrick, adopt-a-path coordinator for The Woodlands Township. “Litter and illegal dumping in open space preserves impact community aesthetics, affects property values and harms wildlife,” she says. “GreenUp volunteers make a difference!”

Registration is available online at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenup through April 1, 2016. A limited number of trash grabbers will be available for loan to groups that register on the website. Walk-up registration is also welcome on April 9, 2016, at the 8 a.m. check-in at a designated park in each village. All participants will receive gloves, trash bags, instructions and an assigned pick-up area at check-in.

The entire community is invited to the post pick-up party from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at Northshore Park. Activities will include free face painting, booths and a concert. Pick-up participants will receive free pizza, snacks and soft drinks, along with the iconic Don’t Mess with Texas Trash-off T-shirt, while supplies last. The general public will be able to purchase food items and beverages.

For more information about the local event, please call the Environmental Services Department at 281-210-3800 or visit www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenup. The Woodlands Earth Day GreenUp is coordinated by The Woodlands Township Environmental Services Department with support from The Woodlands G.R.E.E.N., Waste Management, Woodlands Joint Powers Agency, H-E-B and The Woodlands Development Company.

Additional information:

• Register online by April 1, 2016, at www.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenupwww.thewoodlandstownship-tx.gov/greenup
• Saturday, April 9, 2016
  • Check-in at a designated park: 8 to 10 a.m., walk-ups are welcome
  • GreenUp pick-up: 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  • Celebrate at Northshore Park: 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Photo: For 30 years, the Don’t mess with Texas campaign has taught Texans the real cost of littering.