Adults and youth from several local organizations celebrated National River Cleanup Week (June 2-10, 2007) by "Joining Hands" to clean-up a segment of our beloved Crooked Creek. Described as "the blue-ribbon smallmouth stream of the state," Crooked Creek passes through typical Ozark landscapes, including several small communities, on its way east to the White River.
The clean-up was organized by members of Friends of the North Fork and White Rivers which partners with several agencies and organizations to preserve, restore and enhance the North Fork and White Rivers.
Two Girl Scout troops joined forces to share in this activity. Karla Fresia enlisted the help of Yellville Mayor, Shawn Lane. Together they selected the site for this clean-up, identifying the stretch of Crooked Creek that runs from the Arkansas Game and Fish Access and continues around the park and ballfield. Cotter Junior Troop #476 led by Mrs. Madeline Tucker, joined the Yellville Brownie and Junior Troop #720/195 led by Ms. Fresia and assisted by Ms. Felice Dennis.
In addition to actively picking up trash along this route, the group shared education about our water resources. The care and sharing of our water resources was discussed. It was decided that "We All Live Downstream!"
Sarah DeVries, Source Water Protection Technician with the Arkansas Rural Water Association, provided educational packets for each of the girl's families. Packets included information on
What is a Watershed
If your home has a septic system
Litter Lasts Poster
I love My World (ADEQ Environmental Quality Coloring Book)
Waterfowl and Wildlife booklets from AGFC
This action by the girls will likely earn them the 95th Anniversary badge, "Girl Scouts Make the World a Better Place."
The Twin Lakes Chapter of Thrivent Financial for Lutherans provided all the resources needed to carry out the effort, including banners, caps and T-shirts.
To top it all a pizza party was held at the Yellville Park Pavillion. A great time was had by all!..
