The City of Red Deer has kicked off its annual Green Deer campaign.

Residents are encouraged to participate in Green Deer 2011, an annual City clean-up which runs until June 19.

“Every year, Green Deer positively impacts the look of our City,” said Suzanne Jubb, community and program facilitator with the City of Red Deer. “When winter melts away, trash and litter are exposed. Green Deer helps to keep our community beautiful and enjoyable for everyone.”

Another positive aspect of Green Deer is it brings people together, she said.

Green Deer officially began on Monday and the campaign encourages neighbours, friends and coworkers will work together, challenge each other and show their commitment to the environment.

“When we all work together and take small steps to keep our city clean, it can have a huge impact,” said Jubb. “This year we are really encouraging residents to leave it better than you found it. We encourage Red Deerians to take a garbage bag and a cleaning glove with them when they go for walks. This is an easy way to be proactive in keeping our neighbourhoods beautiful.”

Due to heavy snowfall, Green Deer’s annual kick-off barbeque has been postponed until May 2. It will take place from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre.

Residents planning to register for Green Deer can attend the event.

Other ways to register include calling 403-309-8411 or visiting the Recreation Centre, G.H. Dawe Community Centre or Collicutt Centre. Every group registered is automatically entered into a draw to win a barbeque event.

A Green Deer toolkit is also available on the City web site for groups wishing to issue clean-up challenges to other community groups.

For more information on the Green Deer campaign, call 403-309-8411 or visit www.reddeer.ca/greendeer.

efawcett@reddeerexpress.com