By: Claire Tribble
It’s finally that time of the year! Every spring, Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful along with TVA hosts a Trash Attack at the river. This year, we are a little later than usual, but one good thing about it being late is it won’t be miserably cold. Over the past few years, we have removed over 10,000 pounds of litter from just three roads by the Tennessee River. And guess what…there is plenty more again this year. Volunteers will meet at the Cowford Campground on May 16 at 8 a.m. for directions, supplies, and a gift from TVA!
Why are these river cleanups important? Rivers are vital natural resources that provide drinking water, support wildlife, and offer recreational opportunities. However, they are often heavily impacted by litter. Trash left along riverbanks or washed in from nearby areas can quickly accumulate, harming both the environment and the communities that depend on these waterways. Litter cleanups at the river are an essential step in protecting these fragile ecosystems. In the past few years, our Trash Attacks have removed over 10,000 pounds of trash from Dairy Road, Hatchett Ridge Road, and Cowford Road.
One of the biggest concerns with river litter is its impact on aquatic life. Fish, birds, and other animals can ingest plastic or become entangled in debris such as fishing lines and packaging materials. This can lead to injury, starvation, or death. Cleaning up litter helps prevent these dangers and keeps the river habitat safe for wildlife. Like anywhere that allows public access to land, people take advantage and leave their trash behind. This creates an awful environment and landscape for everyone else.
Litter in rivers also affects water quality. As waste breaks down, it can release harmful chemicals into the water, making it unsafe for drinking, swimming, and fishing. In addition, trash can block water flow, contributing to flooding and erosion along the riverbanks. Regular cleanup efforts help maintain a healthier and more stable river system. We have never held a cleanup where trash such as food wrappers, drink bottles, or fishing equipment were the only things left behind. We have found that many people use these areas to dump anything and everything. From dishwashers to tires to furniture, we’ve found a little bit of everything.
Community river cleanups bring people together to make a visible difference. Volunteers often work in teams to collect and properly dispose of trash. Thankfully, we have the support of Limestone County District 3 Commissioner Derek Gatlin. He, along with his crew, come out on one of their days off to collect the bags (and piles). This is especially great because it prevents animals and people from tearing open bags and scattering the trash again. We can’t thank him enough for his continued help and support. Commissioner Gatlin goes above and beyond for Limestone County.
Litter cleanups at the river are crucial for preserving clean water, protecting wildlife, and maintaining the beauty of natural landscapes. Through community effort and responsible behavior, we can ensure that rivers remain healthy and enjoyable for generations to come.
By: Claire Tribble – Executive Director,
Keep Athens-Limestone Beautiful
