Volunteers dedicated themselves to the removal of an astounding 50 pounds of gum from beneath the seats of the renowned Red Rocks Amphitheatre last year, as reported by the non-profit organization Friends of Red Rock on their Facebook page.
The amphitheater, nestled just fifteen miles west of Denver, Colorado, is celebrated for its naturally formed outdoor setting, hosting star-studded concerts, boasting natural acoustics, a unique ambiance, and offering breathtaking hiking and biking trails.
The non-profit group, Friends of Red Rock, is committed to “preserve the magic of Red Rocks,” a mission they have been actively pursuing for the past three years by undertaking the challenging task of gum removal from beneath the amphitheater’s benches.
Volunteers devote three hours on the last Saturday of each month, collaborating with park rangers to tidy up trails, collect litter, and painstakingly scrape away gum residues, according to KDVR.
Despite gum being explicitly prohibited inside the amphitheater, the persistent challenge lies in preventing visitors from bringing it in their purses or pockets.
Pia Valeriana, a dedicated volunteer with the group, expressed hope that people would “chew responsibly” and dispose of their gum in a considerate manner rather than resorting to sticking it under the seats.
Valeriana highlighted the continuous discovery of gum, even during the winter months when events are not held at the venue, emphasizing that such behavior is disrespectful to the natural wonder they are striving to preserve in its most pristine condition.
She urged awareness, emphasizing that visitors should not take the uniqueness of this place for granted and should treat it with the respect it deserves.