The Lower Dniester National Park, located in southern Odesa, held a memorable event just before Easter. After several days of bad weather, the sun broke through the clouds, birds were singing, and flowers that survived the frosts were reaching for the light. This day marked the spring cleaning, initiated by the nationwide Cleanup March organized by the charity organization "UAnimals".

The "UAnimals" charity provided volunteers with transportation from Odesa, necessary equipment, and snacks. Participants included residents of the village of Nadlymanske, students from the local lyceum, park staff, and 12 volunteers from the Odesa branch of "UAnimals". Despite the snowfall the day before, the participants remained optimistic about their efforts.

"When you intend to do good, even nature becomes your ally," noted one of the volunteers.

Before starting the cleanup, participants underwent an important briefing. A representative from the State Emergency Service explained what hazardous objects to watch out for in natural areas, how to respond to suspicious items, and how to ensure safety for themselves and others. Thanks to this, volunteers set out on their route informed and cautious.

The route stretched along the shores of the Karagolska Bay, where an eco-trail is planned for the future. Volunteers walked slowly, collecting glass, plastic, tires, and other traces of human negligence. In just 3-4 hours, over a ton of trash was collected.

People of various ages participated in the cleanup. One of the youngest participants was eight-year-old Sviatoslav, who independently collected two bags of trash. He shared his impressions:

"Today I want to help nature and see some living creatures. I found a lot of trash and saw many birds – swallows and a pheasant. I would tell people who litter to be kinder to nature, and if they forgot – to turn back and throw it in the bin."

His mother, Karina, mentioned that they recently moved to Odesa from Kharkiv. Before settling here, they also volunteered in Lviv:

"My son has been helping since he was five. I searched for volunteer events myself, wanting to engage in something meaningful. It's important for children to see and feel that they can make a difference."

After their hard work, the volunteers enjoyed a small treat – fragrant Dniester tea "from Uncle Vasya," brewed with bulrush according to a signature recipe, cookies, and warm conversations against the backdrop of beautiful spring landscapes. Park employees, along with Serhiy Kurochkin, a candidate of biological sciences and ornithologist, conducted a mini-tour for everyone interested, discussing local flora and fauna.

This event at the Lower Dniester Park was part of a larger initiative – on April 12, 247 volunteers set out for cleanup efforts in five national parks across Ukraine, collecting a total of 16 tons of trash. These tons are not just numbers; they represent saved homes for wild animals and a chance to restore natural areas. This day by the bay served as a reminder that caring for nature is not just about grand projects but about the specific actions of each of us. Even an eight-year-old child can be an example for adults.