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Nature Clean-Ups
On Trail With Inc. Celebrated 5 Years on Earth Day!
As part of our ongoing mission, OTW collaborates with Keep Nature Wild to host quarterly Nature Clean Ups, preserving trails, beaches, and wild spaces we love, many of which are too often overrun by trash and debris. These events reflect our deep dedication to both community and environmental stewardship.
Our Impact
Every bag of trash removed restores beauty and safety to our trails and beaches. Beyond numbers, these cleanups build a culture of responsibility.
Participants walk away knowing their efforts matter, and children see firsthand how caring for nature creates a legacy for future generations. OTW’s cleanups also complement the city and county’s flood-control and recreation goals, showing how grassroots groups can be vital partners in protecting critical public lands.
We welcome community members, volunteers, brands, companies, and media partners to join us in making a tangible difference. Together, we can protect and preserve the beauty of our planet for future generations.
To get involved or learn more, please contact:
Our Catalyst
Hansen Dam is one of Los Angeles County’s largest flood-control structures and a hub for outdoor recreation in the San Fernando Valley.
But behind its natural beauty lies a pressing environmental challenge. The dam and its surrounding basin have long been plagued by trash, stormwater runoff pollution, sediment buildup, and habitat degradation.
Negligance
30 million tons of sediment have filled the reservoir over decades, reducing water capacity and recreational use.
The Tujunga Wash, which feeds Hansen Dam, is listed as impaired for high bacteria and chloride levels, posing risks for people and wildlife.
Fires, vandalism, and illegal dumping threaten both endangered species and community safety.
Wildlife Habitat Loss & Fires
Hansen Dam’s basin supports a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including endangered songbirds like the Least Bell’s Vireo. Unfortunately, habitat degradation from fires, trash, off-road vehicles, and lack of enforcement has severely disrupted these ecosystems.
Fires—often human-caused—routinely threaten the area, impairing recovery of sensitive species and highlighting the need for stronger.
Everyday Pollution & Safety Risks
Visitors to Hansen Dam have reported alarming types of litter—ranging from syringes and diapers to human and pet waste, empty bottles, and graffiti—especially in sheltered groves that attract wildlife and human activity alike.
Additionally, criminal activity, vandalism, and hazardous homeless encampments introduce dangerous debris and risks into the flood-control system. Debris can block water flow during heavy rain, increasing flood risk for surrounding communities
Our Response
Why This Matters for OTW
Hansen Dam is emblematic of a hidden environmental crisis: a public space loaded with potential, hampered by neglect and pollution.
Earth Day Cleanup
Since 2021, On Trail With (OTW) has led an annual Earth Day Cleanup at Hansen Dam — mobilizing volunteers to restore the space, raise awareness, and inspire stewardship.
On Trail With’s regular cleanups serve as a frontline response—restoring safety, beauty, and ecological resilience one volunteer hour at a time.
Largest Cleanup Ever
In 2025, OTW celebrated its 5th anniversary with its largest cleanup yet:
72 volunteers united -
500+ pounds of trash removed in a single morning -
Countless families, hikers, and community members - engaged in conversation about conservation and trail respect.
