Lake Chelan community to host third annual shoreline cleanup event

CHELAN - Local environmental groups and community organizations are preparing for the third annual "Restore the Shore" cleanup event at Lake Chelan on April 12, as part of ongoing efforts to preserve one of Washington state's natural landmarks.

The community-wide initiative will begin at 9:30 a.m., with volunteers gathering at the City Marina Parking Lot between the drive-in and go-carts across from Chelan Market. Participants are also encouraged to clean up any lakeshore location of their choosing.

This year's event introduces new data collection methods through the TrashBlitz app, developed by the 5 Gyres Institute, which will help track and categorize collected waste. The application is available for free download on mobile platforms, though paper forms will also be provided for those who prefer non-digital options.

The cleanup effort is expanding beyond the main lake area this year. A special cleanup in Stehekin, within the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, will take place on April 11, led by Anna Galipeau of the Lake Chelan Research Institute (LCRI). This extension was made possible through a grant from 5 Gyres' TrashBlitz Ambassador Action Fund.

Campbell's Resort will provide complimentary coffee, tea, cocoa, and pastries for volunteers from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in their Park Room on Woodin Avenue following the cleanup activities.

The event represents a collaborative effort between Keep It Blue--Lake Chelan, LCRI, and The Chelan Project at Chelan High School, with additional support from Campbell's Resort, City of Chelan, Pilgrim Lake Services, Lake Chelan Valley Habitat for Humanity, and the 5 Gyres Institute.

Organizers recommend that participants bring reusable bags or buckets, gloves, and a phone or camera for documentation purposes. Collected trash can be logged independently, dropped off at the designated collection point at 601 W. Wooden Ave., or arrangements can be made for pickup.

Further information about the cleanup event, including registration details, can be found on the Keep It Blue--Lake Chelan website at www.keepitbluelakechelan.org/restore-the-shore.