Trash-Diverting Creek Devices

The Litter Gitter, developed by Osprey Initiative, is an innovative solution designed to address the growing issue of litter in waterways caused by stormwater runoff. By intercepting floating debris before it travels downstream, the system helps protect water quality and surrounding ecosystems.

Constructed from aluminum, the floating structure uses strategically positioned booms to guide waste into a central collection trap while allowing wildlife and small watercraft to pass with minimal disruption. Beyond installation and maintenance, the Osprey team manages a detailed post-collection process, separating organic matter from waste and sorting recyclables by material type, brand, and even estimated age.

This data-driven approach enables partners to better understand pollution patterns and develop more targeted litter reduction strategies, while maximizing the volume of material that can be diverted from landfills through recycling. Now, the Litter Gitter is being used in places like Atlanta's Peachtree Creek to help collect and sort recyclables.

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