The Knox County Foundation has granted $4,030 to support a new initiative aimed at enhancing water quality and safety along the Kokosing Scenic River. The project, led by Friends of the Kokosing Scenic River, will provide volunteers with dry suits and specialized tools to facilitate year-round river cleanup and hazard mitigation.
Currently, volunteer efforts are limited to eight or nine months annually due to cold weather. Without proper equipment, litter and debris accumulate during colder months, affecting water quality and drifting downstream. This initiative seeks to address this issue by enabling volunteers to work safely throughout the year, ensuring that waste is properly disposed of within Knox County.
"This project is about protecting the Kokosing every day of the year," said Ashlee Smith, President of Friends of the Kokosing Scenic River. "With the right equipment, our volunteers can remove debris, clear hazards, and keep the river safe and beautiful for everyone."
The initiative also aims to improve access for kayakers and canoeists by making downed trees passable. This enhancement is expected to boost safety while preserving the river as a popular spot for outdoor recreation and tourism.
For further details or to participate in this initiative, contact Ashlee Smith at [email protected].
Information from this article can be found here.
