Successful cleanup clears Cocheco riverbank debris field

In addition to plastic trash, many metal (and heavy) items were found, including a spare tire, truck tailgate, road signpost and a mechanical pump (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The Rochester Conservation Commission led a group of 20 volunteers on a cleanup mission of a polluted section of the Cocheco River earlier this month.

The effort was organized to address a specific bend of the river that has experienced severe trash collection. The problem was brought to the city's attention by local residents interested in finding a solution.

According to organizers, the group successfully removed a large amount of debris from the challenging shoreline.

In addition to plastic trash, many metal (and heavy) items were found, including a spare tire, truck tailgate, road signpost, mechanical pump, metal chair, automotive leaf springs, rain gutters, part of a child's metal swing set, and metal fencing.

To learn more about the Rochester Conservation Commission, visit www.rochesternh.gov/conservation-commission.