Hundreds Join National Public Lands Day at Georgia Lake

A beloved Georgia lake is getting some tender loving care from its community, and everyone's invited to help.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is calling on neighbors around J. Strom Thurmond Lake to join a shoreline cleanup on September 26. The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon and welcomes families, community groups, and solo volunteers of all ages.

This isn't just a local cleanup. It's part of National Public Lands Day, the largest single-day volunteer event in the country dedicated to caring for shared outdoor spaces. From coast to coast, Americans will be working together to improve parks, lakes, and forests on the same day.

Volunteers can pick up trash and debris at suggested spots like Scotts Ferry Boat Ramp, Tarzan's Hole, and Clarks Hill Day Use Area. Other locations include Keg Creek Boat Ramp, Modoc Boat Ramp, and Columbia Wayside at the base of Price Lake Bridge. But the best part? You can also choose your own favorite spot around the lake to clean up.

The Corps is making it easy to participate. They'll provide gloves, trash bags, and other supplies to anyone who RSVPs. Supplies will also be available at the J. Strom Thurmond Visitor Center for walk-up volunteers.

After collecting trash, volunteers can drop it off at the visitor center at 510 Clarks Hill Highway between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Just wear comfortable outdoor clothes and closed-toe shoes, and you're ready to go.

The Ripple Effect

Every piece of trash removed protects the wildlife that calls the lake home. Clean shorelines mean safer habitats for fish, birds, and other animals that depend on healthy waters.

Beyond wildlife, cleaner recreation sites mean better experiences for everyone who visits the lake throughout the year. One morning of community effort creates months of enjoyment for thousands of visitors.

To join the cleanup, contact Natural Resources Specialist Shelly Johnston at 864-333-1129 to RSVP and make sure you get supplies.