The NFCT and the Lamoille River Paddlers Trail (LRPT) are seeking volunteers to assist with a series of Lamoille River cleanup projects on Saturday, Sept. 28.
The cleanup day is part of ongoing flood recovery efforts along the Lamoille River that began this past spring.
“Last year’s flooding, as well as additional severe weather events this past summer, have left a lot of trash and debris along the Lamoille River, negatively impacting the environment and recreation,” said NFCT Assistant Trail Director Alex Delhagen. “We’ve made great progress with previous cleanup efforts and with the rebuilding of infrastructure along the Lamoille, but there’s still work to be done. Fortunately, volunteers have turned up in force so far, and we hope they’ll join us again.”
The Sept. 28 event will run from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and target three stretches of river in the Morrisville/Johnson corridor: Upper Lamoille River Access (Elmore Pond Rd.) to Rotary River Access; Rotary River Access to Oxbow Park; and Crossing Falls to Moog’s Joint. Each stretch is no more than 4 miles and manageable for all paddling skill levels. Staff and volunteers will focus on removing trash and debris left behind by the recent floods.
The NFCT and LRPT will provide some boats for volunteers, but those who can bring their own boat — canoes preferred — and paddles are encouraged to do so. Volunteers will be required to wear PFDs and are suggested to bring comfortable water shoes, gloves and sun protection. Dumpsters will be placed at each of the take-out points to dispose of whatever trash is collected.
Interested volunteers are encouraged to sign up in advance at bit.ly/lamoillecleanupfall24.
To learn more about the LRPT, visit lamoilleriverpaddlerstrail.org
