BY ROGER SMITH
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
WARFIELD — The Kentucky Waterways Alliance (KWA) is hosting a series of cleanups across the state, targeting all seven major river basins as part of its 2024 Commonwealth Sweep program. Supported by a grant from Hydro Flask’s Parks for All initiative, the program makes its next stop at the Tug Fork River in Warfield on Oct. 5. Volunteers will gather at Warfield Park and along the Warfield Walking Trail for a litter cleanup from 9 a.m. to noon.
Participants will check in between 8:30 and 9 a.m., with a safety briefing scheduled for 9:15 a.m.
KWA has been at the forefront of efforts to protect Kentucky’s waterways since 1993. Susan Griffin Ward, KWA’s community engagement director, mentioned the significance of the Tug Fork River in a press release.
“Tug Fork’s 159 miles of waterways provide critical access for water-based recreation in Warfield and across eastern Kentucky,” she said, noting the river’s appeal to paddlers and anglers. A 60-mile stretch known as the “Bloody Mingo Tug Fork River Water Trail” has emerged as a popular spot for those seeking muskellunge and muskie fry.
Ward also noted the importance of community involvement in the organization’s mission.
“The Kentucky Waterways Alliance is thrilled to partner with organizations and communities striving to protect their waterways while promoting community engagement,” she said. “We hope to see you on Oct. 5 as we clean up Warfield Park and the surrounding areas of the Tug Fork River.”
The event is a collaborative effort. Partners include the Livelihoods Knowledge Exchange Network (LiKEN), Martin County Concerned Citizens, the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet, Friends of the Tug Fork River, the City of Warfield, Team Kentucky and Warfield IGA.
Madison Mooney, LiKEN community engagement coordinator, is leading the cleanup initiative locally.
“This will probably be my last cleanup this year,” Mooney said, urging community members to join in.
Those interested in volunteering can register online at https://forms.gle/MxUNDksS1jrqmkVK6 or by contacting Mooney through Facebook (Virginia Mooney) or at her office in the Martin County Senior Citizens Center in Inez.
Warfield Park is located at 888 Hode Road.