Every year thousands of pounds of trash are transported downstream on our waterways. It is estimated that over 85% of our public waterways are polluted. Not only is this unsightly, but it is a hazard to wildlife and the public that depend on the water.

Each year, the Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission (ORSANCO) sponsors an interstate river cleanup. On June 19, 2021 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., in an effort to join this important cause, the Athens Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), the City of Athens, the Athens City-County Health Department, the Athens County Commissioners, and the Athens-Hocking Solid Waste District are organizing an Ohio River Sweep on the Hocking. As a major tributary of the Ohio River, the Hocking River’s state of cleanliness would have a significant impact on the trash flowing into the Ohio River and points downstream.

We are looking for volunteers to assist us in this effort! Pre-registration and a signed release will be necessary for everyone that will be participating. We need to make sure we have adequate supplies and to mark the success of our efforts. Please register using the online form at www.athensswcd.org. We will then arrange for you to sign releases, pickup your event supplies, and review instructions for trash and recycling pick-up the day of the event. A free T-shirt will be available to participants, while they last!

We will be observing the local COVID-19 pandemic restrictions in place on the day of the event. If you have any questions, please give our office a call or send us an email.

Contact: Teresa Caldwell, Conservation Education Coordinator

Athens Soil and Water Conservation District

69 South Plains Road, The Plains, Ohio 45780