The Kings River Cleanup: A History in Pictures
Each year, dozens of dedicated volunteers, paddlers, local landowners, and conservation partners take to the waters of the Kings River in both Carroll and Madison counties to remove thousands of pounds of trash, discarded tires, and scrap metal. Our cleanups help keep this pristine Ozark jewel healthy and beautiful for wildlife and recreation.
2016 Cleanup Highlights
Over 40 paddlers joined our two major floats in June and September, clearing 28 miles of riverway from Marshall Ford to Stoney Point. Volunteers extracted 64 tires, over 1,500 lbs of metal debris, and dozens of bags of campsite litter.
Volunteers assembling at the launch point
Hauling submerged tires from the river bottom
2015 Cleanup Highlights
The 2015 cleanups covered sections in both Upper and Lower Kings River. Thanks to Carroll County Solid Waste Authority for dumpster placement and tire recycling.
Volunteer flotilla loading trash bags
Tractor tire pulled from gravel bar
2014 Cleanup Highlights
Paddlers tackled the scenic stretch between Marble Access and Marshall Ford in Madison County, and Trigger Gap to Grandview in Carroll County.
Crew unloading at the take-out
Gear raffle and volunteer appreciation
2013 Cleanup Highlights
A huge turnout of over 50 volunteers cleaned 32 miles of stream corridor. Special thanks to local outfitters for providing shuttles and discounted boat rentals.
Canoes stacked with retrieved trash
Group photo at Trigger Gap
2012 Cleanup Highlights
Over 70 tires recovered and 3 tons of scrap metal recycled. Thanks to the Madison County Recycling Center for their ongoing support.
Flotilla navigating downstream
Tire collection at Grandview bridge
2011 Cleanup Highlights
April and June floats removed 106 tires, an abandoned refrigerator, and miles of tangled fishing line.
Volunteers loading trucks at access ramp
Heavy metal debris haul
2010 Cleanup Highlights
April 17th: The Kings Armada with a crew of 19 paddlers and 16 boats covered 11.3 miles of King’s River in Madison County beginning at the Marble access and ending at Marshall Ford. We removed 20 tires, 350 gallons of trash, and 200 pounds of metal. Thanks to Randy Hudson for property access and Madison County Recycling Center.
June 4th: Over 50 paddlers covered 38 miles in Carroll County, removing 86 car tires, 7 tractor tires, 2 loader tires, 5.3 yards of rubbish, a TV, and a battery. Thanks to Twilla Tabor, Eureka Springs Boy Scout Troop 67, Eureka Springs Time Bank, Southern Zephyr bluegrass band, and CCSWA.
Boy Scout Troop 67 & volunteer group
Emily Johnson, 2010 Kayak Winner