Magazine recognizes Little Miami River Kleeners

The Little Miami River Kleeners have been helping keep the banks and waterways of the little Miami River a more pleasant and safe place to visit since 2010. The organization which is based in Bellbrook was started by neighbors Hope Taft and Steve Knopp. Together they have organized annual, large-scale, clean-ups of the river removing literally tons refuse over the years.

Taft said this year’s clean-up in June had more than 200 volunteers yielding 112 tires and more than a half ton of trash from the banks in spite of high water conditions.

In addition they also do stream quality monitoring in several places along the Little Miami River three times a year sending the information to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources.

Taft said the next sampling date will be in October and they will also be participating in the honeysuckle eradication effort in Clifton Gorge on Nov. 2.

They were recently recognized by Field & Stream magazine’s as a “Hero for a Day.” The interview can be viewed at http://www.fieldandstream.com/hero-for-a-day/videos.

The Little Miami River Kleeners meet once month at the Sugarcreek Township Administration Offices

2090 Ferry Road, Bellbrook. Their next meeting is Oct. 8 at 5 p.m.

Those interested in participating in the honeysuckle eradication should contact Christine Hadley (513) 850-9585 or christinehadley@earthlink.net.

Information about the Little Miami River Kleeners can be found at their website www.lmriverkeepers.org/index.html, by e-mailing ohiohoper@yahoo.com or calling Township Offices at (937) 848-8426.

About the Author