As part of the California Coastal Cleanup Day held annually in the fall, the Sierra Nevada Adventure Company (SNAC) decided to get involved and sponsor an inland clean-up at Utica Reservoir located off of the Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway, Hwy 4. Locals like to refer to it as "tucking our high alpine lakes in for the winter."

This effort, in partnership with the California Coastal Cleanup Day, serves to promote good stewardship on all of our waterways, from the source at the Sierra Nevada to the sea. The Great Sierra Cleanup is about much more than picking up trash. It’s a day for Sierra communities – and those from all over California – to demonstrate their desire for clean water and healthy rivers. It’s an opportunity to learn about California’s water source and it’s a time to come together with your families, your neighbors, your community, and your friends to accomplish something vital and worthy on behalf of the Sierra Nevada.

During the first three years of the Great Sierra Cleanup more than 11,200 volunteers have joined together to remove over 526 tons of trash and recyclables from watersheds throughout the Sierra Nevada. Hundreds of community groups have spread across 22 counties and 1,052 river miles to pull appliances, cigarette butts, beverage cans, baby diapers, tires, furniture, and more from the rivers and streams that supply the State of California with 65 percent of its water.

"As a business that works closely with paddlers and campers, we felt it was our responsibility to bring this event into our own back yard." explains Jill Seale, co-owner of SNAC and event organizer. "The cleanup trips give us a chance to paddle with like minded members of our community and work together to keep our favorite recreational destinations pristine."

Meet at 10am at SNAC Arnold or meet at Utica main campground at 11am. Please bring lunch, work gloves, and water. SNAC will supply to trash bags.

There is no charge to participate and SNAC as well as the community of Arnold would LOVE to have you join in for the day! If you are interested in signing up, please contact SNAC at 209.795.9310 or snac@snacattack.com.  Please feel free to bring your kayak or canoe! It allows you to access parts of the lake that are not accessible via foot. Also, please bring appropriate paddling clothes, a sack lunch, and plenty of water! Trash bags, rubber gloves, and hand wipes will be provided.

Dates for Volunteer Opportunity: September 15, 2012