New current for National River Cleanup Week.

Now in its 14th year, National River Cleanup Week is spreading its message of volunteerism to children nationwide. Kids will have a chance to improve their country's waterways, voice their opinions about the importance of clean rivers and win prizes for their efforts during National River Cleanup Week (NRCW), May 14-22. Since its inception in 1992, more than 430,000 volunteers have participated in 4,180 cleanups covering more than 88,000 miles of waterways.

Last year, 47,706 volunteers collected an estimated 1,200 tons of trash and debris. This year, young people are being encouraged to tackle the question of "Where does the trash come from?" in art, poetry and essay contests. Prizes of boats and other outdoor gear will be awarded. Group organizers can enter the photo contest and publicity contest. To participate in the contests, entrants must be part of a registered cleanup. Register at www.nationalrivercleanup.com, or call the NRCW office at [phone], for a registration form.