Want to help clean up the May River? Roll up your sleeves Saturday

Through the years, the annual May River Cleanup has collected more than 40 tons of trash in the river, from the common plastic, glass and aluminum cans to giant tractor tires.

Now in its 10th year, the event's next installment is scheduled for Saturday. In addition to cleaning up the river, participants will be treated to a free lunch provided by Bluffton's Oyster Factory, live music and a display of environmental art, said Nancy Schilling of Friends of the Rivers.

Schilling said more volunteers are needed to chase down hard to find junk.

"Last year, we didn't even fill a whole 40-yard garbage container," Schilling said. "The trash isn't as large as it used to be. The things we're finding now are smaller and harder to catch."

Event organizers also are targeting abandoned boats.

Cleanup organizers will accept old or derelict vessels at Bluffton's Oyster Factory Park and dispose of them properly. They do not need to know who the owner is, Schilling said.

County workers also will need help disposing of a large section of a wooden dock, she said. What should I bring?

Wear old clothes and shoes you don't mind getting dirty. Those who have kayaks or powerboats are asked to bring them to help clean up the marshes and areas that can't be reached on foot.

Who is participating?

Waste Management, Friends of the Rivers, the town of Bluffton, Beaufort County, the Bluffton Rotary Club, Outside Hilton Head, American Rivers, Great American Cleanup, Keep Beaufort County Beautiful, Palmetto Pride and River Smart.

For more information, call Kim Jones at the Town of Bluffton at 843-706-4593 or Schilling at 843-227-0004.