This fall, the annual Rivers Alive cleanup event returns on October 13, 2025. Volunteers are needed to help remove litter and debris from the Chattooga River, ensuring the waterway remains clean, safe, and healthy for both wildlife and residents.

Rivers Alive is Georgia’s annual volunteer waterway cleanup event, focusing on improving the environmental health of local rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands. This year’s project specifically targets the Chattooga River, a crucial natural resource facing ongoing challenges from litter and pollution.

“Do you want to help encourage healthy wildlife to thrive in their environment? Do you want to help keep the Chattooga River clean and safe for all to use?” stated an release from the organizing committee. “Rivers Alive helps us keep up with any trash or debris that makes it into the River, safeguarding the ecosystem.”

The success of the cleanup effort relies heavily on community participation. The event is scheduled to run for approximately two hours, making it an accessible opportunity for individuals, families, and community groups to make a tangible impact on the local environment.

Logistics and How to Participate

  • Prospective volunteers are asked to gather at the UGA Extension Office on October 13th, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
  • Organizers emphasize the importance of registering in advance to ensure an accurate headcount and adequate provision of supplies.

Key details for volunteers:

  • Date: Monday, October 13, 2025
  • Time: 10:00 AM (Punctuality encouraged; cleanup lasts approximately 2 hours)
  • Meeting Location: Chattooga UGA Extension Office
  • What is Provided: Gloves, trash bags, hand sanitizer, and other essential items.

Registration is Mandatory: Participants are asked to call the organizing office to register ahead of time.

For registration or more information about the Rivers Alive project and the specific needs of the Chattooga River cleanup, please contact:

Phone: 706-857-0744

The event organizers look forward to a strong turnout from the community committed to the health and beauty of the Chattooga River. Rivers Alive is a statewide cleanup campaign that targets all of Georgia’s waterways. The mission of Rivers Alive is to create greater awareness of the importance of Georgia’s water resources and to encourage participation in protecting them.