The City of Dubuque is challenging residents to collect one bag of litter for Earth Day, which is Friday, April 22.

The challenge is a part of the City’s “Keep Dubuque Clean” initiative, which encourages residents to help keep their city beautiful by collecting a bag of litter occasionally, or “adopting a spot” and making a commitment to regularly clean a public space.

Green “Keep Dubuque Clean” trash bags are available to be picked up at:

  • The City’s Municipal Services Center at 925 Kerper Ct., Dubuque, which is open Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. - 4 p.m.
  • The utility billing counter in City Hall at 50 W 13th Street, Dubuque, which is open Monday through Thursday 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Friday 7 a.m. - 1 p.m.

After picking up a bag, residents can then clean up a park, neighborhood, or any right of way by collecting litter in the area. The City is encouraging residents to take a picture with their “Keep Dubuque Clean” bag full, and post on social media asking friends and family in Dubuque to accept the challenge too, also tagging @CityOfDubuque and using the #KeepDubuqueClean hashtag. Full “Keep Dubuque Clean” bags can be tied and set to the curb on residents’ regularly scheduled collection day, with no tag necessary.

City of Dubuque Resource Management Supervisor Jake Jansen said:

“Litter can blow into places all over Dubuque, and it can be hard for City staff to collect it all.  Collecting one bag may not seem like it will make a difference, but if all residents of Dubuque do, together we can make a difference"

“Keep Dubuque Clean” bags are available for pick up year-round, for residents to also participate outside of Earth Day. Residents interested in hosting a group clean-up are encouraged to coordinate efforts with the Dubuque Metropolitan Area Solid Waste Agency (DMASWA) by filling out a “contact us” form on the agency’s website. The DMASWA provides groups with large quantities of collection bags and trash grabbers, and will coordinate a bag pick up after the event.

Residents interested in committing to regularly cleaning a public space are encouraged to sign up for the City’s “Adopt-A-Spot” program. “Adopt-A-Spot” activities may include removing litter, reporting graffiti, keeping storm drains clear, landscape maintenance, and more. Learn more at www.CityOfDubuque.org/AdoptASpot.

For more information, call 563-589-4250.

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