News Release Archive

SAN JOAQUIN RIVER "NATIONAL RIVER CLEAN UP WEEK" SCHEDULED

Media Contact: Jeffrey McCracken, 916-978-5100, JMCCRACKEN@mp.usbr.gov

For Release: May 11, 2004

Reclamation is partnering with RiverTree Volunteers and several other local groups to sponsor a San Joaquin River clean up in the Fresno area in recognition of National River Clean Up Week, May 15 through May 23, 2004. Volunteers are needed to remove tons of trash and thousands of tires from the San Joaquin River below Highway 99 over an 8-day period.

San Joaquin River community clean up days are held in recognition of the National "Take Pride in America" campaign, where Federal agencies partner will local organizations and citizens to improve surrounding communities, and as part of the statewide "Keep California Beautiful" campaign.

Volunteer sign-in will be from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, May 15 and Sunday, May 16 at the corner of Sierra and Floyd Avenues and on Saturday only at 8660 W. Herndon Avenue, below the Highway 99 Bridge over the San Joaquin River. Volunteers from Millerton and the Millerton Area Watershed Coalition will lead a similar half-day clean up effort at Lost Lake/Friant Cove in the Friant area. Between May 17 and May 21, clean up will continue at various locations. On Saturday, May 22, the East Fresno Rotary Club and Sunnyside High School Interact Club will join volunteers to conclude the clean up event.

Volunteers are asked to wear long sleeves and long pants, bring gloves, hat, sunscreen, and protection for their feet when in the water. An adult must accompany volunteers under age 18.

Please contact Mr. Richard Sloan of RiverTree Volunteers at 559-696-2971 or e-mail RiverRich1509@aol.com for specific volunteer sign-in locations and directions, or Valerie Curley, Reclamation, at 559-487-5255 or email vcurley@mp.usbr.gov. Contact Mr. Sloan to get information on launching watercraft during the cleanup period.

# # #

The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.