Volunteers sought as ‘First Impression Ambassadors’ for Turquoise Trail spring cleanup

CEDAR CREST — Local community members are preparing to act as “First Impression Ambassadors” this Saturday, May 2, for a coordinated spring cleanup of Highway 14, the gateway to the Turquoise Trail National Scenic Byway.

The East Mountain Partnership and Action Committee (EMPAC), which adopts miles one and two of the highway, is leading the effort to remove litter and improve the public’s first view of the historic route.

“It’s the public’s first impression of the Turquoise Trail, and that matters,” EMPAC organizers said in a statement released this week.

Volunteers will meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Ojito de San Antonio Open Space, located at 30 San Antonio Dr. in Cedar Crest. From there, teams will divide to cover both the north and south sides of the highway between mile markers 1 and 2. Organizers estimate the cleanup will take approximately two hours.

The event is a multi-group effort. Supporters from the East Mountain Historical Society (EMHS) will be stationed at the historic Campo Stone House, located within the cleanup zone. The EMHS will offer historical merchandise and information regarding the area’s connection to the historic Route 66.

Neighboring organizations are also participating in the day’s beautification efforts. Members of the New Mexican Republican Party, District 22, will be cleaning miles two and three, convening at the Prince of Peace Church.

To encourage participation, volunteers will receive a coupon for a complimentary beverage — including coffee, lattes, or Tractor brand drinks — at Lantern Ridge.

Safety is a primary focus for the event. Organizers are asking volunteers to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, bright colors, and sun protection. While EMPAC will provide trash bags and a limited number of safety vests, participants are encouraged to bring their own vests, work gloves, water, and “grabber” tools. For safety reasons, the use of earbuds or headphones is prohibited during the cleanup.

The event is open to the public, though participants under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Interested volunteers are asked to RSVP via email to info@TheEMPAC.org