Participating in GreenUp Ashland is easy, family‑friendly, and a great way to make a visible difference in our community. A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe and comfortable during their cleanup. Here’s everything you need to know before heading out.

 

What to Wear

• Long sleeves and long pants — the best protection against poison ivy, ticks, and thorny brush.

• Closed‑toe shoes or sturdy boots — avoid sandals or open footwear.

• Layers — New England weather changes fast; dress so you can adjust.

• Gloves — we provide them, but you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.

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Poison Ivy Awareness

Poison ivy is common around trails, fences, and wooded edges. Remember the basics: “Leaves of three, let it be.”

To stay safe:

• Avoid reaching into brush, tall grass, or leaf piles.

• Wear long sleeves, long pants, and gloves.

• Wash hands and arms after your cleanup, even if you wore gloves.

• If you think you touched poison ivy, wash the area with soap and cool water as soon as possible.

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Best Times to Clean Up

• Daylight hours only — never clean after dark.

• Avoid busy roadways during peak traffic times.

• If cleaning near streets, always face oncoming traffic and stay alert.

• For families with young children, mid‑morning or early afternoon is ideal.

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Tools You Can Use

We provide:

• Trash bags

• Gloves

• Grabbers (We have a limited supply to loan)

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You may also bring:

• Your own gloves

• Small buckets or wagons

• A reacher/grabber tool

• A rake for light debris (optional)

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Please do not pick up:

• Needles or sharps

• Broken glass with bare hands

• Large or hazardous items If you encounter anything unsafe, note the location and report it to DPW.

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Safe Trash‑Handling Tips

• Always use gloves.

• Use a grabber for anything sharp or questionable.

• Tie bags securely and leave them in your designated drop‑off area or as instructed on the website.

• Wash hands thoroughly after your cleanup.

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After You Clean Up

We love seeing the impact you make!

• Snap a photo of your cleanup area or your collected bags.

• Share it on social media and tag @GreenUpAshland or #GreenUpAshland

• Let us know your location so we can track coverage and celebrate your work.

• Email us your photos info@greenupashland.org

Your photos help inspire others to join in — and they show just how much pride our community takes in keeping Ashland clean.