The Augusta Canoe & Kayak Club along with the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area plan a cleanup July 18 at the Augusta Canal Bulkhead Gates and the Lake Olmstead Trailhead parking lot..
Volunteers are needed beginning at 9 a.m. at the Lake Olmstead Trailhead, located directly behind the old GreenJackets Stadium on Milledge Road, according to a news release.
“The Augusta Canal is a jewel of our city, and keeping it pristine takes a village,” says Russ Gambill of the Augusta Canoe and Kayak Club. “Whether you want to clean from the water in a kayak or help out on foot, every set of hands makes a massive difference. We’re proud to partner with the Augusta Canal National Heritage Area to protect this incredible resource.”
As one of Augusta’s most treasured recreational and historical landmarks, the Augusta Canal relies heavily on community preservation efforts. This cleanup aims to remove litter and debris from both the waterways and surrounding trails, ensuring a safer, cleaner environment for local wildlife and the thousands of paddlers, runners, and cyclists who visit the National Heritage Area each year.
The focal point of this cleanup—the Augusta Canal Bulkhead Gates, located across the canal at Lake Olmstead—serves as the upstream control structure for Augusta’s levee system. Built in 1939, the wood and concrete bridge structure contains 24 steel gates operated by Augusta Utilities to regulate water flow and mitigate downtown flood risks.
Volunteers should bring their own canoes, kayaks, paddles, and personal flotation devices (PFDs). Ground volunteers should wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and comfortable clothing that can get dirty. Sunscreen, bug spray and reusable water bottles are highly recommended. Trash bags and gloves will be provided on-site. The Augusta Canal Authority will provide trash bags and grabbers for volunteers.
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