Went out for a few hours on Sunday afternoon. Didn't catch any fish, but was able to capture this sunset - which is almost as rewarding.
On the way out, I happened to see some things floating in the water. Tis' the season for falling leaves so I let it go at first. While paddling past some of the debris, I realized that these "floaters" were the result of careless human disposal. This has always bothered me, as I make a point to carry a bag for my own trash - so that it doesn't get blown around; especially into the water. Debris in and around our waters create a huge negative impact on animals, fish, and those who enjoy rivers and lakes.
The Catawba has occasional "River Sweeps" sponsored by various groups - who will eventually get MOST of the trash (The last Wylie sweep yielded over 20 tons of debris - and over 1000 pounds of that was trash & recyclables. Go to http://www.catawbariverkeeper.org/ for more info).
Although the River Sweep makes a great impact and many volunteers come out to help, there is so much more we can do. Personally, I pledge to do the following EVERY time I visit the water...
(1) I will be responsible for my own trash and items
(2) I will leave the water with a minimum of 3 additional pieces of trash
(3) I will encourage others to do the same
Simple; right? Absolutely! But if everyone took the same pledge, our waters would be cleaner than ever, and our resources would be around for our children and our children's children to enjoy for years to come. Will you take the pledge?
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