Adopt-a-Stream | Greensboro, NC

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Adopt-a-Stream

Adopt-a-Stream (full adoption)

The Adopt-a-Stream program is a volunteer opportunity managed by the Water Resources department. This program is offered to you and your group to get involved in environmental stewardship.

Groups adopt a stream and pick up litter around the stream twice a year to reduce water pollution. The time commitment for this program is a minimum of two years. Gloves, grabbers and bags are provided.

The City will place a sign bearing your group's name along the road by your adopted stream section. Group members will also receive a car magnet for participation.

Clean-a-Creek (one-time cleanup)

Not ready to adopt a stream? Don't worry. You or your group can still make a positive impact by participating in a Clean-a-Creek cleanup without the commitment to adopt. If you are interested in scheduling a one-time cleanup, please fill out this event form.

To stay updated on future events, fill out this request form, follow @GSOGoesGreen on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, or visit the City's calendar to see upcoming community cleanups.

For your convenience all forms are available on this webpage.

If you are interested in other Adopt-a programs, visit Greensboro's Parks and Recreation Volunteer Opportunities webpage.

Why should I Adopt-a-Stream?

Who can Adopt-a-Stream?

How to Adopt-a-Stream

If you are interested in adopting a stream, follow these steps:

Organize your group. All participants must be 10 years old and up.
Click on the Interactive Map and zoom in to select a stream of interest (dark blue streams are adoptable and orange streams are already adopted). Choose the nearest intersection or street name to identify the area.
Visit the stream to confirm the location is accessible for your group (not too deep, easy to access).
Complete and submit the volunteer application.
The Adopt-a-Stream team will check on the availability of the stream and contact you once it is assigned.

Contact Information

WaterVolunteers@greensboro-nc.gov
336-373-2055
2602 S. Elm/Eugene St.
Greensboro, NC 27406

Before, During and After Stream Clean-up

Before Clean Up

Complete the online event notification form at least two weeks before your event.
Review the safety guidelines with your group.
Have all participants sign the waiver liability form.

During Clean Up

Use the gloves/grabbers and designated bags provided to pick up visible litter.
Stay with your group.
Be aware of your surroundings.

After Clean Up

Leave bags of collected trash and bulk items at the designated pick up site identified in the event notification form.
Complete the online clean-up reporting form within 48 hours of the clean up.

How to Adopt-a-Stream

Current Adopt-a-Stream Volunteer Groups

Cleanup Recycling Guide

Interested in taking your Adopt-a-Stream participation to another level? Check out the NC Stream Watch program. The program includes badges, prizes, educational materials, and more. If interested, e-mail Danica Heflin. (This program is facilitated through the City's partnership with Stormwater SMART).