Lee County/Beattyville Tourism and Firefly Hills Plan River Clean-Up

BEATTYVILLE — Beattyville/Lee County Tourism and Firefly Hills Kentucky are joining forces to host the annual River Clean-Up Paddle, an event aimed at removing trash from the South Fork Kentucky River while promoting local environmental conservation efforts, according to a recent press release.

Volunteers are invited to participate by land or water, and those with kayaks, canoes or boats are encouraged to bring them to assist with the cleanup.

The event will take place on August 15, with check-in beginning at 9 a.m. at 2470 Pine Grove Road, Beattyville, KY 41311. Transportation to river launch sites will depart at 9:45 a.m., and the cleanup will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

According to organizers, last year's event resulted in the removal of 35 tires from the South Fork River with assistance from Friends of Red River, Kentucky Riverkeeper, LiKEN Knowledge and the Lee County Conservation District.

Volunteers interested in making a weekend of the event can take advantage of a special camping offer at Firefly Hills. Guests staying Aug. 14-16 will receive a third night free when booking two nights. The promotional code KYRC26 can be used during online registration.

“Environmental stewardship is a core value at Firefly Hills Kentucky and we’re proud to host an event that encourages both conservation and community involvement,” said Tonja Lesmeister, owner of Firefly Hills. “This cleanup is one of our favorite events of the year because it brings together people who care about the outdoors, the river and our local community. We hope families, paddlers and volunteers of all ages will come out and join us.”

Lee County Tourism Director Dedra Brandenburg said the organization has spent more than 15 years promoting paddling and recreation on the Kentucky River and is pleased to help protect the natural resource.

“Tonja and Troy took a group kayaking on the South Fork and counted nearly 200 tires in just five miles of river,” Brandenburg said. “That discovery helped inspire a growing partnership focused on cleaning up the river. It may seem like a small number compared to the overall problem, but every tire removed is a step toward a cleaner, healthier river.”

Brandenburg added that organizers are committed to continuing the effort year after year.

“The Kentucky River is one of Lee County’s greatest natural assets,” she said. “We invite everyone to join us on Aug. 15 and be part of these cleanup efforts.”