KINGSPORT– Area residents will have an opportunity to help beautify their community in celebration of Earth Days 40th anniversary on Saturday, April 24 during the Keep Kingsport Beautiful Great American Cleanup on the Greenbelt. Sponsored by BAE Systems, the event will be held from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Greenbelt entrance near East Stone Commons (beside PetSmart).
Civic, school and church organizations, boy and girl scout troops, families and individuals are encouraged to participate. Any group desiring to make a difference in their community and cleanup Kingsports famous trail is welcome.
Prizes will be awarded for the largest group, most unusual item of trash, and the most trash collected.
This will be the third year for our focused cleanup on the Greenbelt, says Bill Fortenberry, Chairman of the Greenbelt Committee. It is an opportunity for individuals, families and groups of people of all ages to help preserve the natural beauty and environment along the Greenbelt. It has been rewarding over the years to see so many people who want to make a difference in their community by taking a serious interest in litter prevention and beautification.
To keep the volunteers energized, Food City will be providing breakfast items and snacks.
Last year, the cleanup volunteers removed over 4 tons of trash and debris from the creek and trail area.
The Kingsport Greenbelt is a linear park that connects residential neighborhoods, traditional parks, downtown, commercial districts, schools and activity centers. The scenic trail, first opened over 20 years ago, spans nine miles and features a paved pathway for bikers, joggers and walkers. From one side of the city to the other, the pathway meanders along gentle streams, scenic marshlands, and open meadows with colorful wildflowers and bluebirds. Many of the citys historical sites are along its path.
For more information on volunteering for the cleanup or other Keep Kingsport Beautiful events, call 423-392-8814 or email clean@kingsportchamber.org.
Keep Kingsport Beautiful is a partnership of the City of Kingsport and the Kingsport Area Chamber of Commerce. An affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Keep Kingsport Beautiful has won more than 60 national, state and environmental awards.