For the third consecutive year, the Green Up committees from towns across the Mad River Valley are teaming up for a coordinated, community-wide effort under the banner of the Green Valley Rally. This collaboration aims to maximize the impact of Vermont’s annual Green Up Day, taking place this year on Saturday, May 3, 2025.
The heart of the action will be the Mad River Valley Welcome Center, located at the corner of Routes 100 and 17 in Waitsfield. From 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., volunteers can stop by to pick up official Green Up bags, grab some morning snacks, and receive roadside clean-up assignments. It’s also an opportunity to learn about year-round volunteer efforts with organizations like Friends of the Mad River, stewardMRV, and local conservation and knotweed eradication programs.
BOTTLE DRIVE
This year, volunteers are encouraged to separate out clean(ish), refundable cans found during roadside clean up. Organizers will provide clear bags specifically for these containers. Volunteers can return filled bags to the Welcome Center, where the proceeds from redeemed cans will be donated to the Mad River Valley Interfaith Council, supporting neighbors in need.
JOB FAIR AND BBQ
At noon, the celebration continues with a BBQ for all Green Up Day and stewardMRV volunteers, running until 2 p.m. In tandem with the BBQ, stewardMRV will host a Volunteer Job Fair, where participants can connect with a range of local organizations offering conservation and stewardship opportunities. Representatives from groups including Friends of the Mad River, Mad River Path, and the Mad River Valley Recreation District will be on hand to share ways people can get involved, from becoming a site steward to joining the Mad River Watch volunteer water testing program.
TIRE RECYCLING
The Mad River Resource Management Alliance (MRRMA) will be collecting tires at Earthwise Transfer Station on Green Up Day from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Anyone who finds a tire along the roadside can drop it off for free recycling. Personal tires may also be recycled (with or without rims) for just $5 each.
LIVE MUSIC
Adding to the festivities, the John Lackard Blues Band will provide live music during the BBQ, setting the tone for a celebratory afternoon, and Valley Meade Dispensary are sponsoring the music and supporting Green Up Day efforts.
“Whether you're rolling up your sleeves to clean the roadsides, scouting out a new volunteer opportunity, or just looking for a great community celebration, the Green Valley Rally has something for everyone. Let’s rally together to green up The Valley,” said Eric Friedman, executive director of the Mad River Valley Chamber of Commerce.
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