A great opportunity to clean up our local waterways is coming to the Tri-Cities on Saturday, March 7. The Bill Beazell and Allen Robbins Memorial Tailwater Roundup, presented by the Cherokee and Overmountain Chapters of Trout Unlimited and local community leaders, provides an opportunity for those who love the South Holston and Watauga Rivers to join forces and make a difference. Past years have been great successes, with members from conservation groups, the fishing community, paddling enthusiasts, and the fly fishing industry showing up to take part. Everyone is looking forward to a bigger and better event this year.

This event is made possible by the generous contributions from the TVA, Orvis, and many local businesses.

The cleanup will begin early. Volunteers who would like to help clean the Watauga can meet at the Ingles Elizabethton parking lot, 768 W. Elk, Elizabethton, at 8 a.m. Volunteers who would like to help on the South Holston can meet at the boat ramp in Bluff City at 8 a.m.

Participants can walk the banks, wade the river, or bring their own watercraft to float and clean. Trash bags and gloves will be provided by the Tennessee Valley Authority and there will be drop off dumpsters at specific locations. Cleaning will wrap up around 3 p.m.

Following the cleanup, a celebration for participants will be held at the State Street Brewing Company starting at 4 p.m. All participants will receive a free meal and be entered to win prizes in our participation drawing.    

More details can be found on the web at omtu.org, outflyfishing.org, or on Facebook @overmountaintu.

Mark your calendar and come out to make a difference for conservation in your community.