Like last year for the inaugural Buddy Spangler River Cleanup, over 50 volunteers pitched in on Saturday, Aug. 9 and the amount of garbage looks to be doubled, but official weight won’t be known until it’s delivered to Pacific Steel & Republic in Missoula.

Floaters between Tarkio and St. Regis with walkers combing for garbage up Trout, Cedar, Flat, Lozeau, Johnson, Fish Creeks and the St. Regis River from Henderson to the confluence with the Clark Fork River. Plus the Rail to Trails bike route from Tarkio to Crystal Springs. 

“Big metal items from the old Milwaukee railroad were found in the river again this year. It’s quite a sight to see,” shared Bessie Spangler, president of the Mineral County Rec Club. 

Shoutouts to all of the sponsors including Clark Fork Trout, MCCD and Curt Cochran with surprise donations and services at the after-cleanup party at River Side Soups & Sandz.