Join Us for the Rivers Alive Cleanup Event on October 19!

Get ready to make a difference in our community! We invite you to participate in the Rivers Alive cleanup event on October 19 from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM. The kickoff will take place from 8:30 to 9:30 at Dudley Park, where we’ll provide breakfast for all volunteers.

Rivers Alive is a statewide initiative aimed at preserving and protecting Georgia's waterways through hands-on community engagement. Each year, dedicated volunteers come together to clean up rivers, streams, and lakes, promoting environmental stewardship and enhancing the beauty of our natural resources.

While many volunteer spots for water cleanups have filled up quickly, there are still plenty of opportunities to join us in the storm drain decaling projects. Storm drain decaling is crucial for raising awareness about the importance of keeping our waterways clean. By marking storm drains with educational decals, we help inform the community that pollutants can directly enter our rivers and streams through these drains. This effort aligns perfectly with the mission of Rivers Alive, encouraging everyone to take action to prevent pollution and protect our precious water resources.

Don’t miss out on this chance to contribute to your community and the environment! Register now at accgov.com/riversalive to secure your spot and be a part of this impactful event.

Together, we can take meaningful steps to protect and preserve our local waterways for years to come.

Fall 2024 Rainscaping and Rain Barrel Workshop Recap

On September 24, we held a successful Rain Barrel workshop, where 17 participants took home 20 rain barrels. Together, these barrels will save a total of 1,100 gallons of rainwater, significantly contributing to water conservation and reduction of stormwater runoff in our community.

Thank you to everyone who participated! Stay tuned for our next workshop in the Spring!

Seasonal Stormwater Tips for Fall

As autumn settles in, it’s important to take proactive steps to manage stormwater effectively. Here are some seasonal tips to help you prepare your property and protect our local waterways:

1. Mow Over Leaves: Instead of raking and bagging fallen leaves, consider mowing over them to create natural mulch. This method not only reduces yard waste but also enriches your soil as the leaves decompose. The mulched leaves can help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and reduce the amount of stormwater runoff by allowing water to absorb into the ground.

2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow, leading to erosion and potential water damage. Regular cleaning helps direct rainwater away from your home and reduces runoff.

3. Check Drainage Systems: Inspect any drainage systems around your property, such as French drains or swales, to ensure they are functioning properly. Clear any obstructions to help prevent water pooling in your yard.

4. Prepare Rain Barrels: If you have rain barrels, make sure they are clean and ready for fall storms. Cover them to prevent debris from entering and consider draining and storing them for the winter if necessary.

5. Plant for Erosion Control: Fall is a great time to plant native vegetation that can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion. Deep-rooted plants absorb excess water and help filter pollutants before they reach our waterways.

By taking these steps, you can play a vital role in managing stormwater and protecting the health of our local environment this fall!

Upcoming Events

Hispanic Heritage Celebration

Friday, October 11, 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Pinewoods Library, 1465 Hwy 29 N Lot F-14

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with us at the Pinewoods Library on October 11 from 5:00 to 7:30 PM. Stop by our table to join in on painting a rain barrel and learn about stormwater management.

Rivers Alive 2024
Saturday, October 19, 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Dudley Park

Register NOW for the Rivers Alive cleanup event on October 19 from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at Dudley Park, where volunteers will help clean local waterways, complete storm drain decaling projects, and more. Breakfast will be provided, and registration is open at accgov.com/riversalive.

Clarke County Sheriff's Office Fall Festival
Friday, October 25, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
2900 County Farm Rd.

Join us at the Athens-Clarke County Sheriff's Office Fall Festival on October 25 for family fun and Halloween festivities! Stop by the Stormwater table for candy and a game—perfect for all ages!