Fontana Lakeshore Trash Cleanup expands to DYI month-long effort

A sweeping cleanup effort is underway across Fontana Lake, inviting boaters, floating-cabin owners and community volunteers to help remove debris from its coves and rugged shoreline. The ninth annual Fontana Lakeshore Trash Cleanup combines a month-long, do-it-yourself initiative with a traditional volunteer event Oct. 3. Organizers hope the expanded format will give more lake users an opportunity to participate, regardless of their schedules. "In the past, sometimes scheduling conflicts can be a barrier for folks who would've otherwise loved to participate," said organizer Sarah Jones. "This year, we hope to ensure anyone who uses the lake has ample opportunity to pitch in, in addition to our traditional event for all community members." Roll-off dumpsters will remain available until mid-October at Prince Boat Dock, Alarka-Greasy Branch, Crisp Boat Dock and Sawyers Creek. Reinforced trash bags, protective gloves and disposal services are being provided at no cost. Boaters may contact marina operators for supplies and assistance moving heavy debris from boats to dumpsters. The participating locations were selected in part because their coves and harbors have not been fully addressed during previous cleanups, Jones said. Much of the debris found in those areas is associated with floating cabins. "The majority of trash in these coves is floating cabin-related debris, with Styrofoam dock flotation being both the biggest eyesore and one of the most expensive types of trash to dispose of," Jones said. "We hope to provide an opportunity for our fellow floating cabin owners to help clean up their community at no expense to them, whenever their schedules allow." Previous cleanup efforts have removed nearly 700,000 pounds of trash from Fontana Lake and its shoreline. Styrofoam flotation accounts for the largest share by size and weight, followed by discarded tires. Volunteers also routinely collect plastic bottles, tennis balls and flip-flops. Jones said removing that debris protects wildlife and reduces the amount of plastic breaking down in the water. "While trash cleanups anywhere are important for the environment and protection of wildlife, it is especially important to remove trash from waterways due to the abundance of microplastics created as the trash breaks down in water and sunlight," she added. "Microplastics can pose a harm to anyone who fishes or swims in litter-filled water." The waste also diminishes the natural beauty of a lake framed by Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest. "In an otherwise beautiful lake surrounded by a national park and national forest, all that litter is unsightly and downright wrong," Jones said. Boat and floating-cabin owners may participate before the main event by gathering friends, relatives or neighbors and selecting a cove to clean. Jones encouraged participants to begin with the shoreline near their floating cabins, a favorite fishing spot or any area in need of attention. "Every little bit helps," she said. Those without boats can join the Oct. 3 community cleanup. Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful will provide boats and experienced captains to transport volunteers to targeted coves and carry collected debris back to the dumpsters. "No one needs a boat, or any equipment other than a sturdy pair of shoes to participate," Jones said. Boats will depart Prince Boat Dock at 9 a.m. and return around noon for lunch. Afternoon crews will leave at 1 p.m. Volunteers may work a half or full day and should arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled departure. The work can be physically demanding. Fontana's shoreline is often steep, muddy or rocky, with dense piles of driftwood concealing unstable footing and debris. Boat captains will provide safety briefings before volunteers begin working. Although there is no age restriction, Jones said participants should carefully consider their mobility and balance. Those unable to safely navigate the shoreline can still help with registration, lunch service and other support duties. Volunteers should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, preferably waterproof boots, and dress in layers appropriate for the weather. Cleanup equipment, lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided. "Although folks should be prepared for the physically challenging terrain on the Fontana shorelines, it's always an incredibly rewarding event that brings folks from all walks of life together for the common good," Jones said. Advance registration is encouraged at signup.com/go/GXZvndP. Volunteers may also register for check-in and lunch-assistance positions. The cleanup is supported by Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Swain and Graham counties, the Tennessee Valley Authority, Keep the Tennessee River Beautiful, Swain Clean and Enterprise. Updates will be posted on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube at @KeepingAfloatWithTheJoneses and through Swain Clean on Facebook. For more information, email floatingonfontana@gmail.com.

Fontana Lakeshore Trash Cleanup expands to DYI month-long effort

Contact Us