A local environmental organization led by Morissette has launched a 16‑day cleanup of the St. Lawrence River shoreline in Montreal. The effort, announced on Sunday, August 9, 2026, aims to remove debris and pollutants that have been threatening marine species such as whales and turtles.
The cleanup will span sixteen consecutive days along the river’s banks, focusing on areas most affected by litter and industrial runoff. Volunteers from the group and other community members will work in coordinated shifts to collect waste, sort recyclables, and document the types of material found. Organizers emphasize that sustained removal of contaminants is essential to improve water quality and protect the habitat of the river’s wildlife.
Recent observations have highlighted a decline in the health of marine animals inhabiting the St. Lawrence, with pollution identified as a key factor. The presence of plastics and other debris has been linked to injuries and reduced reproductive success among species that rely on the river’s ecosystem. By targeting the shoreline, the Morissette group hopes to intercept pollutants before they enter the water column, thereby reducing the exposure risk for whales, turtles, and other organisms.
The initiative reflects a broader trend of local groups mobilizing to address environmental challenges in Quebec’s waterways. While the cleanup is limited to a two‑week period, organizers view it as a step toward longer‑term stewardship and increased public awareness of the river’s condition. The project will conclude after the sixteen days, with results and lessons intended to inform future conservation actions along the St. Lawrence and beyond.