ALBANY, N.Y. (WNYT)- Volunteers across New York are invited to join Canal Clean Sweep, a statewide Earth Day effort expected to bring out more than 2,500 people.

Related: Downtown Albany Earth Day cleanup set for April 22 with free lunch

According to Parks & Trails New York, the 21st annual cleanup is set for April 17-19 with more than 100 events planned along the 524-mile New York State Canal System and the 400-mile Canalway Trail.

The group said residents can sign up through the interactive map at www.ptny.org/events/canal-clean-sweep to pick a cleanup site and date. Some events may happen slightly earlier or later than April 17-19, and private events require direct contact with the host.

“Every spring, Canal Clean Sweep reminds us what these waterways are worth,” Parks & Trails New York Executive Director Paul Steely White said. “It’s hands-on work, but it’s also a celebration of shared history, of the outdoors we cherish, and of the people who love these places enough to roll up their sleeves and protect them.”

Organizers said Canal Clean Sweep is run by Parks & Trails New York in partnership with the New York State Canal Corporation. They said the event gives residents a way to help their communities, protect a major cultural and recreational resource and spend time outdoors during Earth Day weekend.

In recent years, organizers said the Canalway Trail has seen record use as the Empire State Trail was completed and interest in outdoor recreation grew. They said volunteers help keep the trails clean and maintained for local residents and visitors.

“Cleaning up the debris that has accumulated around the waterway during the winter months not only makes the user experience more enjoyable for all, it also helps us connect with each other after a long winter, practice environmental stewardship, and give back to this beloved recreational resource,” New York State Canal Corporation Director Ben Walsh said. “I encourage everyone to sign up for – or better yet host – a Canal Clean Sweep event in their community.”

For Related Stories: Parks and Trails New York  Canal cleanup