On a sunny spring day, April 26, 2025, the people of Goleniów came together with regional partners to clean up the banks of the Ina River. More than 130 participants – children, teens, families, and seniors – joined forces in this annual cleanup, proving that caring for the environment knows no age limits.
A longstanding tradition
The tradition of cleaning the Ina in Goleniów dates back to 2008, when the Society of Friends of the Rivers Ina and Gowienica organized the first event. Over the years, they’ve worked to raise awareness of the importance of local rivers. Since 2022, Rewilding Oder Delta has taken the lead, continuing the original mission with a focus on community engagement and nature conservation.
The Ina brings generations together
This year’s cleanup drew participants of all ages, from young children to seniors. Scouts from the ZHP Goleniów troop enthusiastically participated, helping instil environmental responsibility in younger generations. Seniors from the University of the Third Age in Goleniów also got involved, showing that taking care of nature is a shared cause for everyone.
Local officials were also present, including the Mayor of Goleniów, Krzysztof Sypień, Deputy Mayor Magdalena Bauer-Styborska, and Head of the Environmental Protection Office, Łukasz Jaroszewicz – highlighting that responsibility for the environment is a collective effort.
On foot and by kayak
To mark Earth Day, the cleanup took place both on land and on water. Local tour operator “Spływy Iną” demonstrated how businesses that rely on the region’s natural assets can also contribute to their protection by supporting cleanups and preserving the river’s wild character. Seven kayaks were launched from the campground on Spacerowa Street, allowing volunteers to collect waste directly from the river and reach areas inaccessible from the shore, strengthening the impact of the collective action.
A record number of participants
Each year, the number of volunteers continues to grow – proof that the people of Goleniów and the surrounding area feel an increasingly strong connection to the Ina. This river not only enhances the landscape but also provides a place for relaxation, sports, and nature observation.
“This year, over 130 people took part in the Ina cleanup! The growing number of participants shows that the river is becoming a part of our everyday lives. We want the Ina to be not just clean, but full of life – for us and for future generations,” emphasized Magdalena Urlich, the cleanup coordinator from Rewilding Oder Delta.
After the cleanup, participants gathered around a bonfire to enjoy a warm meal and celebrate their shared success. It was a perfect moment for community bonding, conversation, and reflection – reinforcing a collective sense of responsibility for the natural world around them.
Part of a bigger picture
The annual cleanup encourages community involvement in protecting river ecosystems and is one of many rewilding actions focused on improving the Ina River basin. These include:
- Restoring natural riverbeds
- Removing barriers to fish migration and restoring spawning habitats
- Rewetting wetlands, improving water retention, and protecting spring areas
- Educating and sharing restoration knowledge with administrative representatives
Thanks to these efforts, rivers have a chance to regain their biodiversity. At the same time, residents gain access to cleaner water and wilder nature – a space not only for rest and recreation but also a natural safeguard against floods and wildfires.
Organized by: Rewilding Oder Delta
Partners: Municipality of Goleniów, Goleniów Municipal Services Company, Goleniów Cultural Centre, Society of Friends of the Rivers Ina and Gowienica, Spływy Iną, ZHP Goleniów, Foundation for Climate and Biodiversity, “Let’s Save Ina” initiative
Text: Agnieszka Soboń