It's the 8th Annual Betsie River Clean Sweep!

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​The Benzie Conservation District is hosting the 8th annual Betsie River Clean Sweep on June 8th from 8:30 am – 2:00 pm. Volunteers will meet at the Benzonia Congregational Church for a complimentary pancake breakfast. Following the breakfast, volunteers will be divided into small teams, and each team will be responsible for clearing the trash and debris from one section of the river. Participants will also receive a free “Benzie River Steward” hat or dry bag for their service.
 
BCD asks that volunteers bring their own kayak/canoe, but may contact the district office if they do not have access to a boat. It’s important to also bring a water bottle and a life preserver. Trash grabbers and bags are provided.
 
The Betsie River is designated a Natural River, and is located in Grand Traverse, Benzie and Manistee counties. The stream originates at Green Lake near the village of Interlochen and flows in a westerly direction to its outlet into Betsie Lake and Lake Michigan near Elberta and Frankfort. The Betsie River drains a surface area of approximately 165,800 acres and includes about 93 linear miles of streams, 52 miles of which is the main river.
 
The Betsie River Clean Sweep is the perfect opportunity to enjoy time well spent on Benzie’s beautiful Natural River while helping to preserve and sustain the quality and aesthetics of our local environment. Every year participant’s in this event benefit from the act of contributing to the health of our natural resources in a team effort. All are welcome to clean up the Betsie River!
 
The District asks that participant’s pre-register by contacting John Ransom, Conservation Specialist, at the Benzie Conservation District:  (231) 882-4391 x13, or john@benziecd.org.