James River Runners

Monticello High School Community Service Learning Project

The Monticello High School Service Learning Project annual river clean up sponsored by James River Runners, Inc. was a great success once again. Teaming with James River Runners who donated the canoe trip, Monticello High School seniors organized a SUPER James River Cleanup on May 18, 2004. These volunteers focused on removing unsightly litter and discarded tires from a three mile section of The James River. Thanks to all the participating students who received certificates from the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation "Spruce up Virginia Program" acknowledging their community service. River cleanups such as this one are conducted by James River Runners each year to remove debris that moves in from upstream after periods of high water. Due to continued efforts by the outfitter to keep the river clean, this trash pickup yielded nearly as much as previous cleanups. This clean up surely did a great deal to return The James River back to the pristine conditions that we all appreciate!

Above you see the product of this group's effort in 2004. Several hundred pounds of tires and trash are now in their rightful place OFF the river. The most unusual item brought back was an old bathroom whirlpool shown front right. Thanks to all for a job VERY well done!!!!

Here is the great group shown with their award certificates from the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The waters of The James River are now cleaner than ever before! A special thanks goes out to Matt Smith and staff of the Albemarle County Parks and Recreation Department for coodinating the proper disposal of the litter.