Ambitious cleanup project continues to bring Alabama’s rivers back to life

Anna Kathryn Stanford

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April 27, 2025

It’s no mistake that our state is known as Alabama the Beautiful. Over the years, the area’s natural beauty has become more appreciated and widely recognized, and for locals, the interest in protecting it continues to grow.

There is a range of incredible organizations, large and small, across the state that are dedicated to conservation and preserving the state’s beauty, but it can often seem intimidating to get involved. For those looking to ensure a key part of our state’s geographic beauty is protected for years to come, the Renew Our Rivers cleanups are the perfect entry point.

According to Alabama Power, the river cleanup first began in Gadsden on Lake Neely Henry. This year’s Renew Our Rivers cleanups mark the 26th year of the impressive statewide effort. “Last year in the Yellowhammer State, nearly 3,400 volunteers removed about 107 tons of trash from company lakes and other waterways. Throughout the past 25 years, more than 104,000 ROR volunteers have cleared 13.4 million pounds of refuse from Alabama shorelines and waterways,” they share.

Renew Our Rivers is one of the country’s most extensive river cleanups, and Alabama Power has seen incredible support from local organizations, community partners, and volunteers. Find a cleanup near you below and join Renew Our Rivers in continuing to protect our state’s natural beauty.