Photo: Dutchman Lake
It’s that time of year where we roll up our sleeves, step outside, and celebrate our good friend Woodsy Owl by cleaning up the Shawnee National Forest. Illinois Extension, Shawnee National Forest, and Friends of the Shawnee National Forest are inviting volunteers of all ages to join the 2026 trash blasts, a series of fun, hands-on cleanup events happening throughout southern Illinois.
Trash blasts bring neighbors, families, students, hikers, and nature-lovers together to remove litter and trash illegally dumped in forests, trails, waterways, and scenic backroads across the Shawnee National Forest. The goal is simple: keep these special places clean, healthy, and enjoyable for people and wildlife alike. As Woodsy Owl would say, “Give a Hoot! Don’t Pollute!”
“Trash blasts are part community service, part outdoor adventure,” Anne Townsend says. “You get fresh air, great company, and the satisfaction of knowing you made a real difference. Woodsy Owl would be proud.”
Join the trash blasts to:
- Be more like Woodsy Owl
- Help protect wildlife and natural habitats
- Enjoy the outdoors while giving back
- Meet fellow nature-loving neighbors
- Earn community service hours
- Be part of a long-running tradition of stewardship in southern Illinois
Multiple trash blast events are scheduled in 2026, with locations across Shawnee Forest Country. Events are held on the first Fridays of the month from 1-3pm, March through June and September through November. Volunteers can pick the event that works best for their schedule—come for one cleanup or join several. No experience is necessary, and cleanup supplies and safety guidance will be provided at each site. Families, individuals, school groups, civic organizations, and businesses are all encouraged to participate.
Ready to lend a hand? Registration and full details for all 2026 trash blast events can be found at go.illinois.edu/TrashBlaster. Our spring dates and locations are:
- April 3 – Grantsburg Swamp
- May 1 – Ripple Hollow
- June 5 – Dutchman Lake
Fall dates:
- September 4 – Bean Ridge
- October 2 -Turkey Bayou
- November 6 – Iron Furnace
Kick off a weekend getaway connecting with others who value community and conservation, then enjoy an adventure, or just enjoy the scenery of the Shawnee National Forest. Visit www.southernmostillinois.com or phone 618-833-9928 for information on planning a forest getaway.