On Saturday, October 1, 2016 volunteers are invited to take part in a one-day tire cleanup focused on the James River between Howardsville and Scottsville. The James River Association is again proud to partner with the James River Batteau Festival and Boy Scouts of America Heart of Virginia Council for this event. Tire Recyclers is supporting the effort by hauling and recycling all tires collected during the cleanup.

A flotilla of batteaux will be provided by the James River Batteau Festival to help collect and transport tires on the river. Volunteers are needed to assist the crews in loading and unloading their vessels.

“The James River faces numerous challenges on a daily basis, with pollution being one of the largest. Spent tires do not belong in our waterways,” said Pat Calvert, Upper James Riverkeeper. “By working with like-minded organizations and engaging volunteers in large scale cleanups like the Tire-less James, the James River Association can have a direct and positive impact on the river here and now.”

Because this is a self-directed water cleanup, volunteers will need boats and equipment appropriate for safely floating tires down river to assist the batteaux. The James River Association is able to offer a limited number of canoes, paddles, and life jackets to individuals who register on a first come first serve basis.

To register for the Tire-less James cleanup or for more information, visit www.jamesriverassociation.org.