Local Couple Transforms Chico Streets with Daily Litter Cleanup

In a commendable effort to keep their community clean, Gracie Nanez and Anne Perry have dedicated their retirement to picking up litter in Chico, California. Since moving from San Francisco in 2023, the couple has made it their mission to transform the streets they walk daily. Armed with gloves, grabbers, and trash bags, they venture out each day to collect litter and promote environmental awareness.

Anne Perry, at 69 years old, emphasizes the importance of taking action. “Why walk over it when you can bend down and pick it up?” she remarked. The couple, both retired from their courier jobs at FedEx, have become known for their commitment to maintaining a clean environment. Their daily routine often includes picking up trash near the local lake, where they hope to protect the wildlife that inhabits the area.

Gracie Nanez, aged 66, shared her observations of the various animals they encounter, including otters and deer. “By us picking up this litter, we hope to keep them from getting hurt,” she stated, particularly referencing hazardous fishing lines that can ensnare birds. Despite the presence of numerous trash receptacles around the lake, Perry pointed out that some individuals still choose to litter. “Come on, where’s that mentality come from?” she asked, expressing frustration over the lack of accountability.

Their efforts extend beyond their immediate neighborhood. The couple frequently patrols the Bruce Road area between Skyway and Highway 32, where they often discover a variety of discarded items, from cigarette butts to empty alcohol bottles. Perry noted the presence of construction debris as well, which adds to the environmental challenge.

“Today’s society has a nonexistent accountability level,” Perry commented, highlighting a broader cultural issue regarding littering. While they are committed to making a difference, Nanez and Perry recognize their limitations. They often encounter situations where they cannot remove certain large items, such as grocery carts, and must rely on local agencies for assistance.

Navigating the bureaucracy associated with waste management can be challenging. When they identify areas requiring additional cleanup, they must determine the appropriate agency to contact. For city property, this involves submitting a service request to Public Works, while state highways fall under the jurisdiction of Caltrans. Perry humorously described the digital request system as “ridiculous,” noting that requests often get rejected if not precisely pinned on the correct location.

Their commitment to environmental stewardship has led them to explore various avenues for support. On one occasion, they discovered a large lounge chair dumped in a hedged area near the Lakeside Pavilion. After a series of calls to their homeowners association and the Chico Area Recreation and Park District, the chair was eventually removed. Despite the frustrations of navigating local politics, Perry remains undeterred. “At this stage in my life, I don’t care any more. I want to fight the system,” she declared.

In a bid to formalize their contributions, Nanez and Perry are working towards becoming Partners, Ambassadors, Leaders, and Stewards volunteers with the city. Once their paperwork is complete, they look forward to sporting neon PALs vests while continuing their cleanup efforts. The couple often receives gratitude from passersby, which they find encouraging.

“I figure that little things can ripple out and just create a bigger effect down the line,” Perry stated, reflecting on the impact of their work. Nanez, originally from Gridley, emphasizes their desire to inspire the younger generation, particularly her sister’s great-grandnieces and nephews who live in Chico.

To those who litter, Nanez has a simple message: “Don’t do it.” Perry added, “Have regard for the environment and other people following behind you. Pack out what you pack in.” Their dedication to improving their community serves as a reminder of the power of individual action in fostering a cleaner environment.