Pitch-In 4 Me

Mother Earth received a helping hand this past Saturday as volunteers from the Lions Club of Land O’ Lakes and local Garden Clubs headed into the ditches armed with gloves, bags, and plenty of determination.

By day’s end, the largest bin supplied by the townships was filled to the brim with garbage and recyclables gathered from our roadsides. The Lions even separated refundable containers and returned them to The Beer Store, turning litter into a modest contribution toward future community projects.

The cleanup was not all hard labour. Volunteers enjoyed coffee, muffins, donuts, and hot dogs while swapping stories about the unusual “treasures” uncovered in the ditches. New acquaintances were made, old friendships strengthened, and despite the cool temperatures, the sunny weather helped make the day genuinely enjoyable.

What proved most revealing, however, was the staggering number of discarded alcohol containers scattered along our roads. It raises questions about the maturity and judgment of some who still believe the roadside is an acceptable garbage dump.

On a lighter note, craft brewers may be pleased to know their artistic labels appear to inspire collectors rather than litterbugs. Very few craft beer cans were found among the debris. Apparently, some cans are simply too pretty to toss away.

For those who still insist on throwing garbage from vehicle windows, volunteers have one humble request: at least slow down your throw. At my age, climbing in and out of deep ditches to retrieve your trash is becoming increasingly difficult.

Better yet, respect the natural beauty around us. Land O’ Lakes is one of Ontario’s hidden gems — a place meant to be admired by residents and visitors alike, not used as a dumping ground.

Keeping it beautiful should not fall only to volunteers spending their Saturday in the ditches. It belongs to all of us.