In conjunction with the New York State Canal Corporation and Parks & Trails New York, Assemblyman Al Stirpe (D-Cicero) hosted the 2015 Canal Clean Sweep on April 19. Joining with volunteers and community members, Assemblyman Stirpe worked to give the Canalway Trail a “spring cleaning.”

“Spring is an excellent time to appreciate the access we have to trails and parks here in Central New York,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “With Earth Day just around the corner and the warm summer months ahead, the annual Canal Clean Sweep reminds us to appreciate our environment and gives us the opportunity to preserve our recreation areas so they can be used for years to come.”

The Canal Clean Sweep focused on Old Erie Canal State Park, a 36-mile stretch of the 363-mile Old Erie Canal that was designated by the National Parks Service as a National Recreational Trail. The multi-use area offers hiking, biking, picnicking, canoeing, horseback riding, fishing and snowmobiling, as well as beautiful scenery, in its wooded wetland terrain. Assemblyman Stirpe’s group began cleanup efforts near Manlius Center and made their way along the trail toward the Cedar Bay area.

“It’s because of dedicated community members and volunteers, like those I met at the Canal Clean Sweep, that these areas remain in use today,” said Assemblyman Stirpe. “This Earth Day, I encourage all Central New Yorkers to experience the natural beauty we have right in our backyard and consider what we can do to protect our planet.”