Hey Fellow Stanwoodians and Camano Islanders! Samantha Muscolo has become concerned about the growing amount of garbage piling up along the sides of her beloved Camano Island roads. While the county is responsible for cleanup, sometimes we need community encouragement to prompt action. So, Samantha has created an idea - a mass event where she envisions groups of at least three walking from their houses to their closest major road (as can be done safely) to contain the mess on the major roads like 532, SE Camano Dr, SW Camano Drive and major cross streets - called "Piles for Miles". She figures if we can pile up and bag the garbage, it will be easier to haul away by the county, adjacent landowners or volunteer haulers on their way to the dump.
We respectfully volunteer community support on Saturday, February 28, 2026 at 8a.m. - 10 a.m. where we can line the streets closest to you on 532, SE/SW Camano Drives and major cross streets, too. We hope to continue this event about twice per year started by a very beautiful 11 year old. It’s heartwarming to see her care so much about our community, to push everyone to walk to cleanup for health and promoting a clean environment - is so uplifting!
She has started some piles already in the south end. . .We started near Sunnyshore and SE Camano Drive. . .
PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS!! Please bring safety cones to cone off a suitable stretch (best way to do this is to place them on the shoulder line next to area of shoulder you are cleaning - about 10 feet behind, 10 feet ahead. You can't do this without wearing reflective gear and protective gloves (so if you don't have them, please do not volunteer. Always work in groups that move down the road in groups. Always have an adult group team safety lead (who ensures proper cone placement and a safety observer to keep the area safe and volunteers, too, (so a minimum of 3 per group), wear heavy duty gloves, and appropriate clothing for the weather. Eat a good meal ahead of time, make sure you use the bathroom ahead of time (2-hours of volunteer is the goal, but this is voluntary, so if you only have a couple of minutes, that's ok). Stay hydrated and don't overwork. . . We have to do this safely first. Park at public parking areas or your homes only. Do not park along the roads. Always walk safely in groups. If you feel anything is too unsafe, please do not do it - if one group member is uncomfortable - the group must halt.
SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS:
Park at public spots preferably (like IGA, churches, or public parks along the roads). Do not park on 532 or SE/SW Camano Island roads - only at designated parking areas. Consider parking at friends houses. Always assemble in a group, arrive as a group, and leave as a group.
(1) Don't work in any less than groups of three, with at least two competent adults (one to act as safety lead and one to observe) at all times. Always walk in groups.
(2) Don't volunteer unless you have the proper safety gear, at least three safety cones, three people, reflective gear (bright neon green/yellow/orange with reflective tape). Wear weather-appropriate gear, tough ansi approved gloves, and bring biodegradable type yard bags preferably.
(3) Don't forget to eat, toilet ahead of time, and bring water or hydration. Stay hydrated (drink every 15mins).
(4) Don't volunteer more than two hours.
(5) If you are under any doctor's orders or if it is not prudent, do not volunteer. This is for those able to do this work (bending, standing, walking, possibly lifting >10lbs, carrying). So, please do not volunteer if you are unable to do these tasks.
(6) When in doubt, on safety, always bow out.
Also check out other Health & Wellness events in Camano Island.
