Restoring Crangryeong Stream: Shincheonji Volunteer Group’s EM Mud Ball Campaign in Goyang

The Goyang Branch of the Shincheonji Volunteer Group, led by Branch Director Lee Seung-joo, organized a community environmental campaign at Sesol Bridge along Crangryeong Stream in Deokyang-gu, Goyang City. The initiative aimed to improve water quality using EM (Effective Microorganism) mud balls and to raise public awareness of environmental protection.

Citizens Join in for a Cleaner Stream

The campaign offered interactive activities such as a citizen-participation OX quiz and EM mud ball throwing into the stream. Volunteers displayed banners and placards with the message “Let’s Stop Water Pollution,” while explaining the simple science behind how EM helps purify waterways.

Participants who answered quiz questions correctly received eco-friendly handmade gifts—such as tumbler holders, pot coasters, and floral keyrings—crafted from recycled sock yarn. Fathers attending with their children were seen laughing and enjoying the quiz together.

A Hands-On Environmental Experience

In the latter part of the event, around 10 kilograms of EM mud balls were tossed into the stream. Volunteers explained that EM components are beneficial for restoring water quality, sparking curiosity among onlookers. From the bridge, some citizens cheered, shouting “Fighting!” as the activity took place.

A special moment occurred when schools of minnows gathered around the freshly thrown mud balls, allowing participants to see firsthand the impact of the effort on the stream’s ecosystem.

Inspiring Ongoing Community Action

One participant shared,

“I didn’t know this method could help revive a stream. I want to get more involved in environmental activities with my child from now on.”

A Goyang Branch representative noted,

“Although EM mud balls were unfamiliar to many, interest grew after they saw and experienced the process. We will continue to host enjoyable and engaging environmental campaigns.”

A Long-Term Commitment to the Environment

For the past 13 years, the Goyang Branch has held monthly environmental campaigns. This year, July and August were designated as a “Water Pollution Improvement Focus Period,” with active EM mud ball events and public awareness campaigns using placards.

By combining education, citizen participation, and hands-on action, the Shincheonji Volunteer Group continues to demonstrate that protecting the environment can be a shared, enjoyable community effort.

Source: https://vo.la/lxPhmr