VOLUNTEERS FROM THE Nomadic Litterpickers and local boat dwellers gathered on Sunday 15th March to carry out a community litter-picking event along the Grand Union Canal.
This was in the Rickmansworth/Croxley and Watford areas, removing bags of rubbish and debris from the towpath and waterside.
Continued its commitment
Following the success of their past cleanups in Little Venice and Tottenham, the growing group continued its commitment to protecting the waterways while welcoming participation from local residents and visitors, with Agnas Tatar explaining:
“In the boating community, the waterways unite us all. Living on the canals, so close to nature and wildlife often feels like a privilege. Canals are invaluable, and we share the responsibility to care for them. These spaces belong to everyone—boaters, walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers—so it's essential that they remain clean and inviting.”
Volunteers collected a wide range of waste, including glass bottles, cans, food packaging, waste wood and other debris that had accumulated along the towpath and water’s edge. They collected over 40 bags of rubbish.
Not just clearing rubbish
Volunteer Jan Gazda, who took part in the cleanup, remarked::
"It's not just about clearing rubbish; it's about fostering community and uniting people. When individuals come together in this way, they not only enhance the environment but also strengthen connections and instill a sense of pride."
Marcus Trower, Deputy Chair of the National Bargee Travellers Association told:
"We are a nomadic community, so we travel from place to place. Instead of having one fixed home, our home encompasses the waterways and all the places we travel through and stop off at" said
“Nomadic Litterpickers is another excellent initiative from the boating community, which is wonderful to witness, especially now the Canal & River Trust is thinking about a law-change which could jeopardise our way of life. It's another example of why the travelling boat dweller community is worth defending.”