HARRISONBURG, VA (Rocktown Now) – Harrisonburg Public Works is inviting community members to take part in two annual environmental events on Saturday, April 11, 2026, aimed at improving local waterways, reducing stormwater pollution and strengthening the City’s urban tree canopy.

The 28th Annual Blacks Run Clean Up Day will begin at 9 a.m. on April 11 at the grassy lot beside Turner Pavilion, 228 S. Liberty St. Volunteers will check in, receive cleanup supplies and be assigned stream locations throughout the city.

After clean-up activities, participants can visit the Green Scene, which features exhibits and information from 12 local environmental organizations. Participants also are invited to return to the Grassy Lot for a Pizza Party from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Clean Up Day participants also will have the opportunity to take part in the Harrisonburg Public Works annual Social Media Photo Contest, with prizes awarded for categories including largest item collected, weirdest object discovered, largest team and most enthusiastic team. Participants may enter by tagging @harrisonburgpublicworks on Facebook, @hbgpublicworks on Instagram, or using the hashtag #BRCD2026.

“Each year, this event shows the power of community action,” Harrisonburg Public Works Environmental Specialist Austin Shenk said in a release. “The collective effort of our volunteers helps to protect our local waterways and reduces the amount of debris that ultimately reaches the Chesapeake Bay.”

Community members are encouraged to pre-register online, though day-of registration also will be available. All volunteers must complete a Liability and Photo Release form prior to participating. All persons under 18 years old will need a parent or guardian to sign a liability waiver on the child’s behalf.

Also on April 11, Public Works Green Space staff will host an Arbor Day (observed) Tree Planting event at Stone Spring Elementary School. The event supports Harrisonburg’s continued recognition as a Tree City USA community. In partnership with Harrisonburg Public Schools, student volunteers will plant 12 native trees to enhance an outdoor learning space that will eventually become the school’s arboretum.

“We are excited to offer opportunities for community members to actively support our urban forest,” Harrisonburg Public Works Green Space Manager Jeremy Harold said. “Tree planting and invasive species removal are important steps in maintaining a healthy and resilient tree canopy throughout the city.”