VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR ROADWAY CLEANUP AT ZALESKI STATE FOREST
COLUMBUS, OH - People interested in preserving the wholesome natural beauty of Zaleski State Forest in Vinton County are encouraged to volunteer for the forest’s annual roadside cleanup, scheduled to begin at 8:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 2, at the forest headquarters on State Route 278.
The day-long cleanup effort is being co-sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Forestry and the Vinton County Litter & Recycling Program.
“The Zaleski roadway cleanup has become a ‘rite of spring’ in southeastern Ohio,” said Dick Lusk, Zaleski State Forest manager. “The annual cleanup helps keep Zaleski such a beautiful state forest.”
According to Lusk, last year’s cleanup gleaned 1.6 tons of litter from 16.5 miles of forest roadways. Trash and recyclable items removed included 1,440 used tires.
“This year, we hope to do even better,” Lusk said. Volunteers are asked to bring gloves. Trash bags and lunch will be provided. Door prizes will be awarded. For additional information on volunteering for the April 2 cleanup, call the Zaleski State Forest Office at 740-596-5781.
The 28,000-acre Zaleski State Forest is the second largest of Ohio’s 20 state forests. It provides habitat for a diversity of wildlife and a number of threatened and endangered plants and animals. It is also home to the 23.5-mile Zaleski Backpack Trail, part of the original road between Marietta and Chillicothe.