Cold, rain and snow did not stop Merit Academy’s sixth-grade students from fulfilling their commitment to the city and the Keep Woodland Park Beautiful Committee April 29.

Gathered in Memorial Park that morning, the students picked up gloves, safety vests, litter bags and enthusiasm for the task at hand.

“Avoid animal droppings, sharp objects and glass,” said Kristen Higginbotham, the city’s communications and marketing manager.  “We want you to turn your trash into treasure for an original art project.”

In turn, the cleanup artists are invited to show their work to the Woodland Park City Council at the May 21 meeting.

The students started the adventure with a skit that had some throwing litter around the park as others expressed horror at such irresponsibility.

From the park to Evergreen Heights, Northwoods and Meadow Wood Sports Complex, the students attracted attention from drivers who honked and waved as signs of encouragement.

Titled “Litter Bug Art Lab,” the students learned how reusing materials, recycling and caring for the environment can make a difference in keeping Woodland Park beautiful, said Claudia Miller, who helped coordinate the project.

Apex Waste Solutions sponsored the project and provided the receptacles that day, under the direction of Apex general manager Terry Vaughn.

In the end, the cleanup was all worthwhile, as the kids re-grouped in Memorial Park for a pizza lunch.