Volunteers report 1.74 tons of trash at Greenup Day; commission schedules outreach and invasive‑education tabling

Richmond’s volunteer network reported a strong turnout for Greenup Day and discussed several upcoming community outreach efforts at the May 13 commission meeting.

Volunteer coordinator Melissa reported that volunteers collected 3,480 pounds of trash (1.74 tons) in Richmond on Greenup Day, excluding tires; volunteers recovered 31 tires and roughly 500 Greenup Day bags were distributed, with 172 people participating. Melissa coordinated statistics reporting with Greenup Vermont and town highway staff and said Richmond will submit statewide statistics for grant and planning purposes.

Janette updated the commission on the Save Our Salamanders project and recommended a centralized checkout system for shared gear to track equipment year‑to‑year; commissioners discussed town storage, checking gear in after use and a community “bring your gear” event to exchange and meet volunteers.

For community outreach, the commission confirmed farmers‑market tabling dates (initially June 19 and June 26, with an option to move one date to September 4) and talked through likely activities — invasive‑species identification materials, an interactive kids’ activity (invasives bingo), and a possible plant sale or swap. Commissioners discussed logistics (tables, banners, volunteer scheduling) and agreed to coordinate outside the meeting to finalize who will staff each date.

Next steps: Melissa will finalize Greenup Day reporting, Janette and others will pursue gear‑management arrangements, and commissioners will confirm farmers‑market volunteers and materials at the next meeting.