The clear water of the Bitterroot River needs to stay that way. The Bitter Root Water Forum is helping with their annual Bitterroot River Clean Up. Volunteers walk along the banks or float on stretches of the river, collecting trash that has found its way into the valley's main water source. The organizers have set up sections that volunteers clean, bringing the trash to a big Bitterroot Disposal dumpster at Hamilton's River Park Saturday, August 10. Then, at 4 p.m. Saturday, a volunteer appreciation BBQ happens, along with prizes for Best Trash, Photo Contest and door prizes. Raffle tickets are for sale with the grand prize of a rod and reel combo from Freestone Fly Shop. There are sections of the river that still need some volunteers. Most are in the West Fork. Call the Bitter Root Water Forum at (406) 375-2272 or drop by their office at 178 South 2nd Street to sign up.

The Clean Up is just part of three days of activities. Thursday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. a Pint Night at Higherground Brewery in Hamilton will raise money for the Water Forum. Friday evening, August 9, a 5K Fun Run (or walk) will follow a route on the west edge of Hamilton along the river, starting at River Park. A stroller route is also available. Registration starts at 6 p.m. ($30 fee includes a T-shirt) with the evening run at 7 p.m. The kids (age 10 and under) will also enjoy a free Splish Splash DASH at 6:45 p.m. All the activities will help keep our Bitterroot River in great shape!

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