The Municipality of Mississippi Mills is shaking off winter and diving into MM Spring Greening — a celebration of Arbour Week and Earth Day — running from April 20 to May 3. It’s the perfect time to dig in, pitch in, and help green up the community!
Festivities begin with the return of the MM Community Clean Up (previously Pitch-In Week), launching April 18 and running through April 26. Residents are encouraged to gather family, friends and neighbours to tidy roadsides, parks and public spaces. Getting involved is simple: once you’ve chosen your clean-up location, email waste@mississippimills.ca and the Municipality will provide bags that can be left at the curb without tags. And don’t forget to snap a photo and email it in — there are fun prizes for the most unusual item found!
On April 22 (Earth Day), the Municipality is pleased to partner with the Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust (MMLT) and One Mississippi for a special screening of the MMLT film Nature’s Path to Wellness, beginning at 6:30pm at the Almonte Old Town Hall auditorium. Produced with Pinegrove Productions and supported by the Perth and District Community Foundation and MMLT donors, this short film shares real stories about how connecting with nature can support emotional resilience, balance, and overall wellbeing.
Following the screening, a panel discussion will invite reflection from film participants and audience members. After a brief intermission, local groups can share information about other green community initiatives under the theme of wellness.
The Municipality’s Roads and Public Works Department is also bringing back the popular free Mississippi Mills Tree Seedling Giveaway on Saturday, May 2 from 9–11am (while supplies last) at the Roads and Public Works Garage (3131 Old Perth Road). This free event is open to Mississippi Mills residents only. Bare-root seedlings such as red oak, silver maple, white pine, tamarack and red pine (based on availability) will be offered, with a limit of ten per household. Residents are encouraged to bring a bag or box for transport.
“This is a great opportunity to highlight the environmental work we’re committed to year-round,” says Zack Moshonas, Mississippi Mills Environmental Compliance Coordinator. “Every one of these initiatives — from seedling giveaways to roadside litter cleanups and the exchange weekend — help us to care for the natural spaces that we share. When we all participate, not only do we improve our parks, roadsides, and green spaces — we also strengthen our commitment as a community to the environment.”
Rounding out MM Spring Greening is the Annual Exchange Weekend, running from May 1 to 3. Residents are invited to leave unwanted but usable items at the curb for others to discover and repurpose. Items may be set out starting Friday, May 1, and must be removed by Sunday, May 3 if not taken.
“MM Spring Greening is a wonderful reminder of what makes Mississippi Mills so special — when we come together, we make our community stronger, cleaner, and more vibrant,” notes Mississippi Mills Mayor Christa Lowry. “From picking up litter to planting trees, every small action adds up. I’m excited to see residents of all ages join in again this year as we celebrate Earth Day and Arbour Week and welcome a fresh new season.”
To find out more, visit mississippimills.ca/springgreening.