Adopt-A-Stream turns 10
Volunteers pick up trash along Allens Creek. Donated photo
The Adopt-A-Stream program in Haywood County turned 10 this year, with 1,600 volunteers spending 4,000 hours removing more than 27 tons of trash since the program’s launch in May 2009.
Currently, 13 groups are helping in Richland Creek, Allens Creek, Jonathan Creek, Lake Junaluska and the Pigeon River, but more volunteers are needed. Groups must clean their stream section at least once a year and commit to it for two years. Signs, bags, gloves and grabbers are provided.
Removing trash from waterways improves aesthetics, prevents negative effects to the environment and benefits the economy. According to the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission, tourism from trout fishing brings in $384 million to Western North Carolina and supports 3,600 jobs. Because trout depend on clean water, keeping trash, sediment and other pollutants out of the water helps fish and the economy.
The Adopt-A-Stream program is supported by the Tennessee Valley Authority, Town of Waynesville, Town of Clyde and the Pigeon River Fund of the Community Foundation of WNC. To join, contact Christine O’Brien at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.476.4667, ext. 11.
