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SALT LAKE CITY — The Jordan River is stretch of water that runs from Utah Lake to the Great Salt Lake and flows through a lot of backyards. In recent years, the water has gained a bad rap to some, but on Thursday, hundreds came with shovels in hand to help change that perception.
Over 800 volunteers helped clean up the Jordan River Parkway between 1800 North and about 6300 South.
"Together, as we contribute our time and hearts into the community, we're going to create 100 days of volunteer service in total,” said Marsha Gilford, a volunteer and Smith's vice president of public affairs. "As a group, we're able to help clean up and help keep this as a viable part of our community."
The volunteers were spread along four different routes to pick up trash, clean the trails and remove the thistle that is “out of control” and a nuisance for people who want to go on walks.
"It is great that as a group we came together just to clean up the Jordan river,” said Gary Blackhurst, a volunteer who works for Smith's.
Gilford says she came to be a part of something bigger in the community and to make the area she lives and works in beautiful.
"Our hearts just feel so full when we can get out and contribute to the community,” Gilford said. “It makes a connection."
This is just one step in the clean up process around the Jordan River. On Saturday, there will be another major volunteer clean up effort called "Get in the River Day." Anyone who can lend a hand is asked to come out and help at Jordan Park, 1060 S. 900 West.
