IA DNR: Annual River Cleanup Route and Dates Announced

DES MOINES - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is looking for adventuresome volunteers to take part in the sixth annual Project AWARE (A Watershed Awareness River Expedition) river cleanup and water quality monitoring initiative.

This year's river cleanup expedition will tackle about 87 miles of the Winnebago, Shell Rock and Cedar rivers from June 14 to 21. The route will launch from Mason City and float through Rockford, Marble Rock, Greene, Clarksville and Shell Rock before landing in Cedar Falls. Volunteers participate by floating the river in a kayak or canoe and cleaning up river trash along the way. While the expedition lasts an entire week, volunteers may stay and help for as little or as long as they like.

Project AWARE combines river cleanup, recreation and education into a meaningful and rewarding experience for volunteers. Past participants have said that AWARE is one of the greatest ways for someone to connect with nature and make a difference in protecting it.

In the five-year history of Project AWARE, the expedition has sported an impressive track record, enlisting 863 participants who have cleaned up more than 400 river miles and four different lakes, and removed 1,000 cubic yards or trash, of which 85 percent was recycled. Volunteers have also restored native prairie, renovated trails and enhanced recreational areas.

While the work can be tough and dirty, the expedition is really one of a kind.

"It's a lot of fun. The people are amazing. When you can get people to take a vacation just to pick up trash, that's something," said Don Propst, a Project AWARE veteran.

Project AWARE is an initiative of the DNR's IOWATER, Water Trails and Keepers of the Land programs.

For more information on this event and to download the registration materials, please visit www.iowaprojectaware.com or contact Project AWARE by email at iowater@iowater.net or phone Jackie Gautsch at (319) 335-1761.