Smoky Mountain News

Raft loads of volunteers will take to the Tuckaseigee River on Saturday, April 16, for the 27th annual clean-up organized by Western Carolina University’s Base Camp Cullowhee.

The Tuckaseigee River Cleanup is the largest single-day effort to clean up a river in the country. Last year the event drew more than 600 volunteers, who removed about five tons of garbage from 27 miles of the river.

Registration will be on the A.K. Hinds University Center lawn from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. After registering, volunteers will be issued a life jacket and paddle. Base Camp Cullowhee will provide transportation to the river, where participants will listen to a safety talk and receive trash bags. After working to clean up the river, volunteers are invited back to the University Center lawn for a free cookout, live entertainment and the chance to win prizes donated by local businesses.

Volunteers must weight at least 40 pounds to be allowed in a raft. Those who don’t want to raft can work the shoreline from walking trails. The first 600 volunteers to register will receive free T-shirts. Volunteers should wear old clothing and shoes that will not come off in the water. No prior rafting experience is needed. 828.227.3625 or visit basecamp.wcu.edu.