News Release

Date set for Annual Obed Volunteer River Cleanup

Paddlers kayaking with rainbow

NPS

News Release Date: March 16, 2021

Contact: Matt Hudson, 423-346-6294

Contact: Effie Houston, 423-569-9778

Join us on March 27, 2021, as Obed Wild and Scenic River partners with Tennessee Citizens for Wilderness Planning, and East Tennessee Whitewater Club to host its annual volunteer river-based cleanup.

The stream section to be paddled will be determined based on river flow levels and other factors. Experienced whitewater paddlers are welcome to participate but must provide their own whitewater boat, personal floatation device, helmet and appropriate river attire.

Paddlers should be proficient in Class III whitewater. Participants should meet at Obed Visitor Center at 9:00 AM (ET) and should bring sufficient food and water for a full day’s river trip.

Park staff will be following CDC guidelines and practicing social distancing during the event, and volunteers are encouraged to do so as well. Important components of this include the
maintaining of a distance of greater than six feet from others and the wearing of face coverings when this is not possible.

This event may be cancelled or modified based on weather conditions and river levels