SAVANNAH, Ga. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Richard B. Russell Lake seek volunteers to assist with the annual National Public Lands Day cleanup at the reservoir this year. National Public Lands Day will be observed throughout September at Russell Lake. Georgia’s Rivers Alive organization will partner with the Corps of Engineers to sponsor the cleanup. Volunteers for the cleanup campaign will work on the shoreline and islands in and around Russell Lake anytime between Sept. 1 and Sept. 30, 2017, National Public Lands Day.
National Public Lands Day, coordinated by the National Environmental Education and Foundation, began with the idea that millions of Americans who use federal, state, and local public lands each year could spend a day volunteering their time to the land and their country. Volunteers from scout groups, civic organizations, church groups, schools, businesses, along with entire families can participate.
Individuals and groups interested in volunteering can obtain a registration form online here.
“Simply fill out the form and return by mail, email or in person to the Richard B. Russell Lake Office,” Corps Park Ranger Annette Dotson said. The sign-up form will also be available at the Corps of Engineers’ Project Managers Office. Once registered, volunteers will receive more detailed information including safety tips, potential litter collection sites, and drop-off locations.
Trash bags will be provided upon request or volunteers may bring their own. All participants will receive a map of the lake, rubber gloves, and a coupon for a fee-free day in any federal park, while supplies last.
“Our forests, lakes, and recreation areas are a national treasure and keeping them clean means keeping them safe and attractive. Each year we ask the residents that live around beautiful Russell Lake to set aside one day to celebrate and give back to the lands that give us so much,” Dotson said. “We encourage everyone to join in and help keep Russell Lake a pristine location.”
For more information, call Park Ranger Annette Dotson at 706-213-3406, toll free at 800-944-7207, ext 3406, or electronic mail at annette.r.dotson@usace.army.mil Make plans now to participate!
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