We invite individuals and families to join us outside for a day of fun at this cleanup volunteer event! Following the event, we will host a free BBQ for volunteers at Gypsy Camp and Canoe from 12-2 PM with prize giveaways on April 23.
Postponed to April 23 and April 30th for specific sections. See details below.
Select a location where you would like to cleanup and register below. If you are with a group or family (or want to form your own group), come up with a shared group name and let us know in the form. We can’t wait to see you all out on the Illinois River!
All volunteers should bring their own water bottle and appropriate apparel (e.g., rain coat, boots, hat, long pants). Gloves, trash bags, and a limited number of trash grabbers will be available. Please note that all boaters are responsible for coordinating their own shuttle (a ride back to the put-in will be possible - discuss with your location leader). All boaters should have their own boat, PFD, paddle, and sufficient experience on the water to navigate technical sections.
Section 1: Lake Fayetteville - April 23
Lake Fayetteville Cleanup
Meet-up Location here. (36.140460, -94.126266)
Led by Sim Barrow (Lake Fayetteville Watershed Partnership), involves cleanup of litter around the lake and possibly on the water. Appropriate for families and different ages.
Section 2: Savoy - postponed to April 23
Meet-up location here. (36.103177, -94.344993)
Led by Rob Moody (Arkansas Canoe Club NW Chapter), involves cleanup along road around bridge and technical downriver litter cleanup that is only appropriate for experienced boaters.
Section 3: Kincheloe - April 23
Kincheloe Road Downstream Cleanup
Meet-up location here. (36.172667, -94.390583)
Led by Travis Chaney, involves cleanup of litter at the parking area, up and down the stream banks, and along a busy highway. The cleanup is appropriate for experienced boaters and family participation at the access site.
Section 4: Chamber Springs - April 23
Chamber Springs Streamside and Road Cleanup
Meet-up location here. (36.167168, -94.433956)
Led by Melissa Jandebeur (Wonderful Waterways), involves cleanup in the parking lot, along the access road, and along the stream bank upstream and downstream if safe to do so. Appropriate for families and different ages. This group will not be getting on the water.
Section 5: Kayak Park - April 23
Siloam Springs Kayak Park Downstream Cleanup
Meet-up location here. (36.123335, -94.516486)
Led by Jerrid Gelinas (Gypsy Camp & Canoe), involves litter cleanup along the streambank and downstream along the river with takeout at Gypsy Camp and Canoe. Appropriate for families and boaters with limited experience on the water.
Section 6: Lake Francis Cleanup - April 23
Gypsy Camp to Lake Francis Cleanup
Meet-up location here. (36.111472, -94.536806)
Led by Gypsy Camp & Canoe, involves cleanup of litter and tires along streambanks and downstream to Lake Francis.
Section 7: War Eagle - Canceled due to high water.
War Eagle Illinois River Float Cleanup
Meet-up location here. (35.988882, -94.920995)
Led by Mohamed Bassime (City of Tahlequah) and Candice Miller (Oklahoma Blue Thumb), involves kayaking approximately 6 miles and walking on the bank to collect litter.