- This event has passed.
Catawba Riversweep
Make a Big Splash for a Cleaner River!
The Catawba Riversweep isn’t just another cleanup—it’s the largest one-day river cleanup in the entire Southeast! On Saturday, October 4th, we’re rolling up our sleeves and joining thousands of volunteers to protect the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. Together, we’ll help keep our waterways beautiful, safe for swimming and fishing, and free from pollution.
Cleanup Location
We’ll be tackling trash at the Paw Creek Vineyards Boat Ramp on Lake Wylie in Charlotte, NC—a spot that’s more than just a launch point. Lake Wylie is part of the vast 8,900 miles of waterways in the Catawba-Wateree Basin, stretching across 26 counties in North and South Carolina. This lake connects directly to the Catawba River, serving as a lifeline for the region. It provides vital wildlife habitat, scenic trails and parks for recreation, and—most importantly—clean drinking water for countless communities downstream.
Volunteer Options
- Non-Motorized Watercraft (9 spots): Bring your own kayak, canoe, or other non-motorized watercraft to paddle around and pick up trash.
- Motorboat Passenger (4 spots): You will be dropped off to pick up trash at various locations.
Good Deed Deserve Good Times
After the cleanup, keep the good vibes going at the Boathouse in McAdenville until 4:00 pm! Kick back with great people, enjoy live music, and join in on fun games. As a thank-you for your hard work, Catawba Riverkeeper is covering your food and your first beer—cheers to making a difference!
How to Register
- Visit the Catawba Riverkeeper event registration page and follow the instructions: https://cerv.is/0010rSKICLUB25
- If this is your first event with Catawba Riverkeeper, you will be prompted to create a Volunteer Profile.
- Helpful Tip: If you accidentally click out of our event registration page, enter SKICLUB25 as the event reservation code.
Registration closes on Thursday, September 25th at 10:00 AM; however, you must register by Sunday, September 7th, to be guaranteed a limited-edition 2025 Riversweep t-shirt.
What to Know Before You Go
How to Find Us
Meet us at the Vineyards Boat Ramp at 8:30 AM. Look for Alisa and David wearing dark blue club t-shirts with a snowflake QR code on the back.
Gear Up for the Cleanup and Be Ready to Get Messy
River cleanups are hands-on, so plan on getting a little dirty and maybe even wet—no matter what role you’ve signed up for. Wear clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty, and remember: closed-toe shoes are required. (Crocs and similar slip-ons aren’t recommended.)
Bring Along these Essentials:
- A full water bottle
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- Optional: Waterproof day pack to hold your personal belongings
- Optional (but highly recommended): Change of clothes and a towel
What’s Supplied on Sweep Day by Catawba Riverkeeper
- All clean-up materials, including trash grabbers, gloves, and trash bags
- Tarps for boat captains to protect their boats from the trash being collected
- Water to refill your water bottle
- Basic first aid and hand sanitizer
- Instruction before and during the cleanup activity
- Information about Catawba Riverkeeper
- An on-site bathroom
- A riversweep-sized after party
- A free t-shirt to thank you for your time (must register by September 7th)
Guest Policy
Club members may bring guests, but everyone needs to register through the Catawba Riverkeeper event link.
Age Policy
Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.
Weather Policy
The event may be canceled due to inclement weather, including rain or storms. You will receive an email notice within 24-48 hours if we have to cancel.
Event Leaders and Riverkeeper Contact
Please contact Alisa Weber at 704-685-0780 or David Stoner at 704-604-5202 with any questions. Our Riverkeeper contact is Kaity D’Angelo. You can reach her at 704-679-9494 extension 114 or kaity.d@catawbariverkeeper.org.