Swannanoa Sweep
Community Clean-Ups

The Clean-Ups started with the spring 2007 event, drawing close to 50 Valley volunteers. Another was held that fall. Clean-Ups have been held every year since then, averaging about 30 helpers.

The Clean-Up produces about 100 bags of trash, in addition to other items too large to bag, such as vinyl siding, mattresses and numerous tires.

“We get many positive comments from businesses along Highway 70 that appreciate our efforts to spruce up Swannanoa,” says Clean-Up Chairperson Maureen Dillow. “We could do an even better job if we had more volunteers.”

The Sweep staging area is at the Ingles parking lot, close to the bank. The County provides the orange vests and bags. All you need to bring are a pair of gloves and a willingness to devote as little as one hour to help keep our precious valley looking clean.

If you have concerns about this type of work:

• No heavy lifting is involved if you have those restrictions.
• You can partner with another volunteer and exchange who picks up and who holds the bag.
• You can stay along flat land if climbing along riverbanks is not something you can do.
• You can staff the sign-in/refreshments table, giving out bags and vests to volunteers.
• You can organize a Sweep in your own neighborhood.
• Come anytime between 9 am and 4 pm

Can you help?

Yes, you can. Look for the next Swannanoa Sweep listed in the Upcoming Events area of the home page. Then click here and sign up to help. The rewarding feeling is out-of-this-world. And the donuts help, too!

Go to our Photo Gallery to see previous Clean-Ups.