DEWITT -- Volunteers are being asked to help clean up along the Erie Canal in DeWitt this Saturday.

As part of the "Canal Clean Sweep" volunteers will be out picking up trash and other debris. It's the 7th year for the event which welcomes another season of recreation along the Canal system including walking and biking.

"It's important that the public get involved and help us keep our green areas clean and free of debris which impact this canal and our environmental concerns as well," said Matt Driscoll, president and CEO of the Environmental Facilities Corporation.

This saturday's clean up event starts at 9am.

Brian Stratton, director of the Canal Corporation said, "The Canal Clean Sweep is a great way for community groups and individuals to show their pride in our magnificent Canalway Trail system by pitching in with their neighbors."

The canal is scheduled to open this year on May 1st, weather permitting.

A list of Canal Clean Week events statewide can be found on the Parks & Trails New York Website.