Photo submitted to the Times Observer Volunteers unload a boat full of tires and barrels removed from the Allegheny Reservoir.

The U.S. Forest Service has removed more than 45 cubic yards of trash from the Allegheny Reservoir during the twentieth annual Allegheny Reservoir Cleanup Day.

On May 11, 2024, 58 volunteers donated 464 hours to remove 540 tires and 45 cubic yards of trash from the Allegheny Reservoir.The cleanup was a true community effort, with volunteers from various backgrounds and organizations coming together. Many volunteers were associated with the Seneca Nation of Indians and agencies including the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Every year, a Warren County Adult Probation and Parole group participates to earn community service hours.

Since 2005, almost 1,300 volunteers have donated over 10,000 hours, removing nearly 500 cubic yards of trash from the reservoir. In addition to over 16,00 tires, volunteers have removed lawn chairs, televisions, refrigerators, and more.

“Our reservoir cleanup days would not be successful without all the hard work of our many dedicated volunteers,” said Nathan Welker, Allegheny National Forest Aquatic Ecologist.

The 16th annual Allegheny River Cleanup Day will take place in September 2024. For more information, visit alleghenyrivercleanup.com or contact info@alleghenyrivercleanup.com.