The annual Eastern Kentucky Personal Responsibility in a Desirable Environment (PRIDE) Spring Cleanup is set to take place this Saturday morning at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park. This is a great opportunity for anyone looking to get some fresh air, exercise, and do something good for the environment. Volunteers will be picking up trash along Highway 90 and other roads near Cumberland Falls.
Registration for the cleanup will start at 8 a.m. at the gift shop, and the cleanup itself will take place from 9 a.m. to noon. Last year, a total of 270 volunteers showed up to participate in the cleanup, and they were able to collect 700 bags of trash, along with 48 tires, a freezer, and a plastic wading pool, among other items. The prior year’s cleanup was also a huge success, with volunteers collecting over 600 bags of trash.
What’s more, there’s more at stake in this year’s cleanup than just a cleaner environment. The Volunteer Cup trophy will be awarded to the county with the most volunteers participating, which adds an extra incentive for locals to get involved. Additionally, a plaque and a $100 cash prize will be given to the school group or community group with the most volunteers.
If you’re planning to participate in the cleanup, make sure to dress appropriately for working outdoors, and wear sturdy shoes. PRIDE will provide trash bags, disposable gloves, and safety vests.
It’s worth noting that this year’s event is being held in partnership with Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, Eastern Kentucky PRIDE, the McCreary County Fiscal Court 109 Board, the Whitley County Fiscal Court, the U.S. Forest Service, the McCreary County Extension Service, the McCreary County Board of Education, the Whitley County School District, the Whitley County Tourist Commission, the Corbin Tourism and Convention Commission, Sheltowee Trace Outfitters, and the Pine Knot Job Corps. Outdoor Venture Corporation is also the sponsor for this year’s cleanup.
If you want to learn more about the cleanup or have any questions, you can contact PRIDE toll-free at (888) 577-4339 or at (606) 677-6150, or email them at [email protected].
It’s worth mentioning that the PRIDE initiative was launched in 1997 by Congressman Hal Rogers and the late General James Bickford, the former Secretary of the Kentucky Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Cabinet. Their vision was to restore the natural beauty of their native region by encouraging citizens to take responsibility for protecting their environment and providing the education and resources they need to do so. So if you want to help make a difference and be a part of something bigger than yourself, join the PRIDE Cumberland Falls Cleanup this Saturday!