Keep Carter County Beautiful Removes 4,400 Pounds of Trash from Watauga Lake

Butler, Tennessee

While most people stayed inside their warm homes over the chilly weekend, there were 14 dedicated volunteers who braved the frigid water and icy winds of Watauga Lake on Saturday for the fourth annual Cherokee National Forest River Cleanup on Watauga Lake.

Kathleen Gibi of Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful put two aluminum boats in the water on Saturday, and the 14 hard-core volunteers were ferried to remote coves and shorelines.

Environmental Impact

The cleanup effort yielded an impressive result, with a total of 4,400 pounds of trash removed from Watauga Lake. This initiative by Keep Carter County Beautiful demonstrates a proactive approach to preserving the natural beauty of the lake and its surrounding areas.

Among the items collected were plastic bottles, fishing gear, Styrofoam, and various other debris that can harm the wildlife and ecosystem of the lake. By removing these pollutants, the volunteers have made a significant contribution to the conservation of Watauga Lake.

Community Support

The success of the cleanup would not have been possible without the support of the local community. Volunteers from Keep Carter County Beautiful, along with other concerned citizens, came together to make a positive impact on the environment.

This collaborative effort highlights the importance of community involvement in maintaining the cleanliness and health of natural water sources like Watauga Lake. It serves as a reminder that individual actions can collectively lead to a cleaner and healthier environment for all.

Upcoming Cleanups

The cleanup of Watauga Lake is just the beginning of a series of initiatives by Keep Carter County Beautiful. The organization has scheduled three more cleanups of lakes and streams in the Cherokee National Forest in the coming weeks.

These upcoming events will provide additional opportunities for volunteers to contribute to the preservation of the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity. By participating in these cleanups, community members can play a crucial role in protecting the environment for future generations.

Conclusion

The efforts of Keep Carter County Beautiful and its volunteers in removing 4,400 pounds of trash from Watauga Lake are commendable. Through their dedication and hard work, they have demonstrated a commitment to environmental stewardship and conservation.

As we look ahead to the upcoming cleanups in the Cherokee National Forest, it is clear that the community’s support and involvement are essential in safeguarding our natural resources. By working together, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for all to enjoy.