Early Saturday morning Dan Palmer was having a hard time believing his good fortune.

The number of volunteers for the annual May countywide cleanup was quickly reaching 700, one of the largest in the history of the event.

“I’m excited, Palmer, director of the Lawrence-Scioto Solid Waste District, said. The district organizes and sponsors the event.

Groups worked throughout the county and the city of Ironton pulling weeds, putting out mulch and picking up trash as part of the Great American Cleanup. Whether it was on the main streets, county roads or alleys, everyone was working.

“I am amazed at the additional ones who have come in to register,” he said. “This is encouraging.”

While kickoff time was 9 a.m., students from St. Joseph High School started pitching in at 8:30 a.m. as part of their community service obligation.

“Anything we can do for community service,” Amy Woods said.

This year under the director of new Ironton Mayor Katrina Keith, all department heads were part of the event.

“This is a true community event,” she said.

She was also pleased to see the number of young people participating.

“You are getting them to understand about giving back,” she said.

Throughout the county at various locations were rolloffs where those cleaning townships can dispose of trash.

“The event grows a little each year,” Palmer said.