Behind the Greenway: How River Rangers Keep Our Trails and Waterways Healthy
Every beautiful stretch of the Woonasquatucket River Greenway has a team of dedicated people working behind the scenes to keep it healthy, safe, and welcoming!
Throughout September and October, WRWC’s River Rangers have been hard at work caring for trails, parks, trees, and stormwater infrastructure across the watershed.
Their work includes everything from clearing fallen branches and maintaining trails to removing invasive plants, caring for native vegetation, and keeping stormwater systems functioning properly.
As the seasons change, so does the work needed to protect these important community spaces.
More Than Trail Maintenance
Along the newest section of the Greenway on Promenade Street and Kinsley Avenue, River Rangers have been clearing sediment from stormwater catchment basins, removing invasive weeds, and pruning trees to keep the trail accessible.
These green infrastructure systems help capture and manage stormwater runoff before it reaches the Woonasquatucket River.
Keeping them clear of sediment and unwanted vegetation is an important part of protecting water quality and reducing flooding.
The Rangers have also been preparing the Greenway for colder weather, removing fallen branches and clearing slippery leaves from bridges while continuing regular landscape maintenance.
Making a Difference Together
This season brought some impressive results thanks to the Rangers and their community partners.
From February through October, Groundwork Rhode Island helped remove more than 600 pounds of trash and 200 pounds of recycling from the Bandalong River Bandit, a passive trash collection system near WRWC’s Eagle Square office.
On September 17, volunteers from Rhode Island Energy also joined the Rangers along Promenade Street and Kinsley Avenue, collecting 46.7 pounds of litter.
The Rangers have also partnered with Amos House’s Hands Up program to bring additional outreach and litter cleanup efforts to the Greenway.
Thank You, River Rangers!
Maintaining a healthy river corridor takes consistent care, teamwork, and attention to detail.
Much of this work happens quietly, but its impact can be seen in cleaner waterways, healthier landscapes, and more welcoming places for everyone to enjoy.
A huge thank-you to our River Rangers, seasonal staff, volunteers, and community partners for all they do to care for the Woonasquatucket River Greenway.
The next time you’re walking or biking along the river, remember the people helping make that experience possible!