The first annual Otter Creek, Lake Oelwein, and Lake Fontana clean up will be June 26, 2010. The clean up is being jointly sponsored by the City of Oelwein, Fayette County Solid Waste Commission, the Buchanan County Conservation Board, and P.L.E.A.S.E. (People Linked for Environment and Support Efforts). This effort will clean up Otter Creek as it flows through Oelwein, Lake Oelwein, and the Fontana Park impoundment.

Volunteers are needed for a day of paddling clean up and land based shoreline clean up. Plans are to meet at the Oelwein City Park by Lake Oelwein. Volunteers will be split up there. Plans are also in the works for a lunch and drinks for thirsty volunteers.

Volunteers should dress for wet and muddy conditions, remembering sun screen, bug repellent, and other necessities for a day outside in June. A limited number of canoes/kayaks have been secured for the day thanks to the Buchanan County Conservation Board and Upper Iowa University. Volunteers may also opt to bring their own paddle craft.

A CLEAR grant from the Iowa DNR, the City of Oelwein and the Fayette County Solid Waste Commission will be helping to defray expenses.

To volunteer or to help coordinate this clean up, please contact Nathan Lein at 319.283.1212.