ST. LOUIS (KMOX) - The Living Lands and Waters group says volunteers made a big dent in cleaning up the banks of the Mississippi River on Saturday.

Around 250 took part at St. Louis, and 150 more joined-in at Alton.

Organizers say crews removed garbage like tires, large pieces of styrofoam, and plastic bottles.

Jo Beth Thomason, an Illinois American Water employee who volunteered in Alton said, “This is my day off and I’m out here because I really enjoy giving back, love to help get this place cleaned up, and help out the environment.”