Volunteers sought to help clean up the Yough River

By Christine Haines

chaines@yourmvi.com

More than 600 tires have been removed from the Youghiogheny River between Cedar Creek Park and West Newton over the past two years, and it’s estimated there are that many more still to be taken out.

“Many of them are historic tires that have accumulated over time, but there’s still illegal tire dumping,” said Eric Harder, the Yough River keeper with the Mountain Watershed Association.

Harder recommends that anyone participating in this year’s Yough River Cleanup and Tire Sweep wear work gloves to avoid getting cuts on their hands and sturdy, tie-on shoes to protect their feet from sharp and slippery rocks

“Don’t wear flip-flops. They just become next year’s trash,” Harder said.

Harder said at low water levels it’s easy to see the riverbed and any tires or trash that may be under the water. But if the water is high, visibility will be low and it may not be safe to be on or in the water.

“We’re hoping for a clear, clean stream, but we also need the rain,” Harder said.

The conservation event will take place between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sept. 12, but because of social distancing practices, there will be no group meeting or shuttles provided this year.  

If there is too much rain and the river is high, participants will be encouraged to stay off the water, Harder said, but that shouldn’t stop individuals from picking up tires or trash on other days.

“It’s easier to clean up as you go instead of hosting a giant clean-up,” Harder said. “With more people using the river, some may not be familiar with ‘leave no trace,’ so this is an opportunity  to spread that message. This year we’re definitely seeing more tubes and shoes.”

For anyone participating in the Sept. 12 event, a limited number of canoes are available to use for free through grants obtained by the Mountain Watershed Association, but prior reservations are needed. 

Harder said with low water it is possible to walk a large section of the river beside a canoe, using the boat to pile up tires.

“Don’t overdo it. There’s a lot out there. Once you’ve picked up 10 or 12 tires, your boat is going to feel different. We don’t want you to overdo it and maybe get back on the river and overturn.”

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