Local residents will work together to tackle litter in and around a portion of the Banister River this Saturday. The Flotsam Flotilla river cleanup will begin Saturday, September 10 at 9 a.m. at King’s Bridge Landing in Halifax.
“We are fortunate to have many people who enjoy our local rivers and are dedicated to protecting the Banister and our other waterways because a healthy community starts with a healthy river. We want to help maintain the beauty of our community and the outdoor recreation areas that so many enjoy,” said Town of Halifax Town Manager Carl Espy, himself an avid paddler.
The Flotsam Flotilla, done in coordination with the Wild Blue River Festival set for September 17, has taken place for the past two years. Not only does the cleanup help rid the river of manmade debris and trash, but it is also an opportunity to access the river for a clear path for paddlers during the Festival.
“The town has experienced success with our cleanup for the past two years and I’m sure this year will be no different. We’ve had several volunteers come out to float the river, and we hope to see some of those same people and small groups back with us again this year,” said Halifax Mayor Kristy Johnson.
The Virginia Department of Transportation – Halifax residency has generously donated orange trash bags for collecting trash. Volunteers should dress accordingly, including the use of bug spray and bringing gloves if available. Areas of cleanup will include land and water, so those wishing to be part of the river cleanup team should bring their canoe. Concentration of cleanup will be King’s Bridge Landing in Halifax, then down the river to Terrys Bridge Landing and the green areas immediately around both landings. The Dan River Basin Association (DRBA) continues to support the seasonal clean up efforts by providing safety vests, gloves and trash grabbers.
DRBA Executive Director Tiffany Haworth commented on the community’s continued involvement, “Rivers connect us to each other, to nature, and to future generations. It is wonderful to see so many people in and around Halifax taking action to protect and restore their rivers and clean water.”
For more information on the Flotsam Flotilla river cleanup and the Wild Blue River Festival on September 17, visit www.halifax-events.com.
