ADC dives into river cleanup

Staff, inmates join in ‘Take Pride’ program

Inmates of the Wildland Fire Crew from ASPC-Yuma, Coronado Unit clear debris from around the Colorado River as part of the U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Reclamation’s “Take Pride in America” program. ADC staff and inmates were among 350 volunteers who participated in the event, which removed more than 39 tons of trash.

Taxpayers have saved some cash following the clean up of 39 tons of trash and debris, six car bodies and nearly 250 vehicle tires.

Jack Simes, Bureau of Reclamation External Coordination Group Manager, visited ASPC-Yuma September 26 to recognize ADC staff and inmates of the Cocopah Unit Wildland Fire Crew who participated in a river cleanup effort May 6 near Yuma as part of the Take Pride in America Program.

"The Bureau of Reclamation has worked hard with the Boy Scouts of America to clean up our corridor of the Colorado River and we're both thankful for all the dedicated volunteers, like those from the Department of Corrections,” Mr. Simes said. “They have given their time and talent to help make this year's project a success. ADC volunteers really did a great job in this cleanup effort."

Each inmate who participated received a cloth patch and a certificate of appreciation, which included photos taken during the cleanup. ADC staff received framed certificates of appreciation, a patch and a letter of thanks.

Recognized by the U.S. Department of the Interior, the bureau’s award-winning Colorado River cleanup program brought together 350 volunteers diverse agencies, including ADC, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Fort Yuma-Quechan Indian Tribe, Allied Waste, Arizona State Parks, Boy Scouts of America, Ocotillo District Bureau of Reclamation, Bureau of Land Management, Yuma Fire Department (EMTs), Yuma Public Works, Dick’s 24-Hour Towing, Rural Metro Fire Department (EMTs), Take Pride in America, Yuma County Department of Public Works, Yuma Crossing National Heritage Area and Yuma River Tours.

ADC participation in programs, such as the Colorado River cleanup, is an example of the department’s commitment to Restorative Justice and Community Betterment.

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