Keep Iowa Beautiful Calls for Volunteers for Annual Pick-Up Iowa Program

DES MOINES, Iowa (March 19, 2026) — Keep Iowa Beautiful is inviting residents across the state to roll up their sleeves this spring and take part in its annual Pick-Up Iowa program, with a statewide goal of recruiting 2,500 volunteers.

The initiative encourages Iowans to organize and participate in local clean-up events aimed at reducing litter and improving community spaces. The 2026 Pick-Up Iowa campaign runs from April 1 through June 30, giving communities a three-month window to host events that fit their schedules.

Pick-Up Iowa focuses on cleaning a wide range of areas, including roadsides, neighborhoods, parks, school grounds, forests, and streams. Since 2020, more than 260 clean-up events have been held statewide, drawing an average of 2,000 volunteers each year.

The program is part of Keep America Beautiful’s “Greatest American Cleanup,” the nation’s largest community improvement effort, which engages more than 300,000 volunteers annually.

“Pick-Up Iowa is more than just a clean-up initiative, it’s a chance to build local leadership through volunteer work that brings people together to make their community shine,” said Andy Frantz, executive director of Keep Iowa Beautiful. “When residents team up to beautify their town, they’re not just improving public spaces, they’re strengthening civic pride too.”

Organizers say anyone can get involved, from individuals and families to service clubs, schools, church groups, businesses, and local governments. Common hosts include civic organizations, sports teams, Scouts, and college groups.

Registration is now open, and participants are encouraged to select a date between April 1 and June 30 that works best for their group. Resources to help plan and promote events are also available online.

More information and registration details can be found on the Keep Iowa Beautiful website.

With spring approaching, organizers hope communities across Iowa will step up to make their towns cleaner, greener, and more beautiful. 🌱