With the water warming up and fishing activity increasing at area State Parks, local outdoor officials are asking for help in maintaining the cleanliness of public spaces. 

Department of Natural Resources Conservation Police Officer Noah Workman says while the State works hard to provide trash receptacles, they can fill up quickly, and the burden of keeping these areas beautiful falls on the visitors.

Workman frequently encounters individuals disposing of cigarette butts directly into the water, which he describes as a particularly inconsiderate action at popular fishing spots.

As the calendar turns toward May and the start of the boating season, Workman also reminds the public that now is the time to ensure all gear, including safety equipment and vessel registrations, is up to date ahead of the Memorial Day weekend.

Just a few years ago, outdoor officials threatened to close local sites because trash buildup had become so ubiquitous. Officer Workman hopes it doesn't come to that this summer.