Cleaning Up Sioux Falls: Big Sioux River Greenway Event

Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup Returns

Spring is in the air in Sioux Falls, and that means it’s time to roll up your sleeves, grab some gloves, and make a difference together.

The 11th Annual Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup is back on Saturday, April 25, from 10 a.m. to noon, inviting the entire community to come out and help keep one of the city’s most treasured natural spaces looking its best. This isn’t just a cleanup - it’s a celebration of community pride, teamwork, and the shared love of the outdoors.

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From families with young kids to local businesses, students, and first-time volunteers, the event brings together people from all walks of life with one common goal: protecting the beauty of the Big Sioux River Greenways.

A Morning That Makes a Difference

There will be seven check-in stations located in City parks along the recreation trail that follows the Big Sioux River through town.

Falls Park (701 N Weber Ave)
- Tent near Queen Bee Mill
- Site host: JLG Architects
Beadle Greenway Park (824 E 14th St) *This location is in need of more volunteers
- Beadle Greenway Shelter
- Site host: IMEG
Rotary Park (2408 E 26th St)
- West Picnic Shelter
- Site host: HDR Inc.
Yankton Trail Park (3901 S Minnesota Ave)
- Tent at Yankton Trail Park Soccer Field 12
- Site host: Sanford Health
Sertoma Park (4300 S Oxbow Ave)
- Sertoma Park Large Picnic Shelter
- Site host: Friends of the Big Sioux River
Legacy Park (7001 W 12th St)
- Tents next to restrooms off W. 12^th St.
- Site host: The Sioux Empire Lions Club
Elmwood Park (2804 W Bailey St) *This location is in need of more volunteers
- Elmwood Park Picnic Shelter
- Site host: CNH-Raven Industries

Volunteers will spread out along the riverbanks, parks, and trails, collecting litter and helping restore the area after a long winter. It’s a simple act that has a big impact - not just on the environment, but on the sense of connection people feel to their city.

Events like the Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup show what makes Sioux Falls special. It’s a place where people show up, pitch in, and take pride in where they live.

How to Get Involved

Participation is easy; you can pre-register online. Pre-registration saves you time on the day of the event and helps ensure each station is stocked with enough supplies. Or you could just show up ready to help. Volunteers are encouraged to wear comfortable clothes and be prepared to sign a waiver. Volunteers can pick up cleanup supplies at check-in stations, including maps, trash bags, and plastic gloves

So mark your calendar, invite a friend (or a few), and be part of something meaningful. Because when a community comes together, even a couple of hours can make a lasting impact.

The Big Sioux River Greenway Cleanup isn’t just about picking up trash—it’s about showing up for Sioux Falls and keeping it beautiful for everyone.

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