Next month, the Livingston Trails and Greenways committee will host a Passaic River cleanup on Saturday, April 9. This cleanup, which the committee does at least once each year (another typically occurs in the fall), offers residents a fun opportunity to get to know a slice of Livingston of which many people are unaware. It is also a necessary task to keep the waters pristine for animals and humans alike.The Passaic River is home to muskrats, deer, multiple species of birds, and fish. Humans also live in homes off the banks of the river and use it recreationally (and are responsible for the plastic bottles, wrappers, and other pollution of the water). As a result of this use, the river periodically needs a cleaning.The committee has several canoes and kayaks available to use, and people are also welcome to bring their own.We strongly encourage residents to participate in this worthwhile event. We have this gem in our own backyard and there is no reason not to take full advantage of it.Paddling on the river (and we speak from experience) is peaceful and relaxing, and if one didn’t know any better, there would be no indication that this long stretch of water runs through Essex County. We are lucky to have this beautiful slice of nature among the area’s urban sprawl; it’s a getaway that is just a walk away for many in town. And, as a bonus, paddling is a nice, lowintensity exercise (especially traveling in the direction away from the current).The journey of a few miles north or south of the launch point features views of Route 10 and Mt. Pleasant Avenue (the river travels beneath bridges along the roadway), rows of houses and offices, and even the Cedar Hill Country Club golf course, where those on the water will be close enough to watch a few putts. Of course, the wildlife is the main attraction; on our last paddle, we saw herons, turtles, foxes, and stacks of freshwater mussels that had been feasted on by birds. Muskrats, deer, fish, and other species of birds are known to frequent the area, as well.Canoes and kayaks will enter the water at 10:15 a.m. on the day of the cleanup and all are invited to join. The paddle is expected to last about two hours. A rain date is set for Sunday, April 10. The launch site is located at the ...
