In the spring you clean your basement. And if you live in Baltimore, in the fall you clean your backyard. Baltimore's 2009 Fall Cleanup is slated for this Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Public Works is asking neighborhoods to pick an alley, lot or illegal dumping site for special attention. Officials say if community representatives call 311 to register, they will be provided with containers for debris collection (on a first come, first served basis.)

Those participating are asked to bag and stack debris at designated point so it can be picked up on Monday. The city will give community reps the location when they register.  

So, if you're an organizer, call 311 and get recruiting volunteers. If you want to volunteer, call your community association.

Baltimore Sun file photo of a Fall Cleanup/Chiaki Kawajiri