Local volunteer group Shahis River Stewardship Project outlines cleanup, youth programs and agency partnerships

Members of the Shahis River Stewardship Project presented to the Aberdeen City Council on May 27, describing cleanup operations, volunteer recruitment and partnerships with state and federal agencies.

Mike Ba, Tristan and Hannah (project volunteers) told the council the group has completed 22 community cleanups in one month and five days, removed over 100 bags of trash, and is stewarding roughly 3,000 acres in coordination with the Department of Natural Resources and other agencies. They said the group conducts weekly Saturday cleanups, runs youth-education programs, and is coordinating a large-marine-debris removal program with state agencies.

The presenters asked the council’s help finding a permanent 2,000–2,500 square-foot community hub where volunteers, agencies and residents could coordinate outreach and host training. They noted ongoing collaborations with the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Ecology, Department of Health, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Naval Base in Everett for community outreach and safety training.

Council members thanked the presenters and offered to share information about available city-owned properties. The group said they currently lack a permanent property and are managing logistics while their volunteer following and social-media reach grow.

The council did not take formal action on the request, but members encouraged staff to look for potential spaces and to relay contacts for partnering agencies. The group will provide follow-up materials to council members as requested.