SOLVE brings communities together to take care of our environment and enhance our waterways.
S.O.L.V. (Stop Oregon Litter and Vandalism) started as an all-volunteer-driven organization to address litter and vandalism throughout the state. We were founded in 1969 by a charge from eco-pioneering Governor Tom McCall, who believed it was every Oregon citizen's inherent right to enjoy and take responsibility for the places where we live, work, and play.
Every April, the Oregon Spring Cleanup spans beaches, neighborhoods, parks, and natural areas across the Pacific Northwest—all in celebration of Earth Month. It’s a proud SOLVE tradition that’s been making an impact since 1986.
Launched in 1984 as the “Plague of Plastics,” the first statewide beach cleanup in the U.S. rallied volunteers to stop 52,000 pounds of litter from reaching the ocean. Today, the Beach & Riverside Cleanup spans the coastline, riverbanks, parks, and neighborhoods across the region. Held each September, it wraps up summer by removing litter before fall rains wash it into storm drains and waterways, helping protect rivers, wildlife, and the ocean downstream.
Groups and individuals of all backgrounds and ages are invited to volunteer at our cleanup and restoration events or plan one of their own.