COLUMBUS - Team members removed tires, bottles, cans, cups, PVC pipes, and other debris from the waters. Fun and unusual items collected included an inflatable unicorn and a plastic lawn chair. The group plans to devote volunteer time to river cleanups on the Colorado River and the Brazos River. According to team leader Chuck Babb, his interest in cleaning up all started with seeing the "Don't Be a Litterbug!" ads when he was young. Then, as he began paddling a canoe on the water, he saw many scenic places violated by trash. So, Babb began picking up as much litter as he could. And he encouraged people to pick up at least three pieces of trash every time they go out on the water or anywhere they see trash. Tayvis Dunnahoe believes these rivers are worth protecting, and removing any amount of trash is a step in the right direction. The scenic Columbus Paddling Trail provides canoeists amply opportunities to view wildlife including deer, turtles, fish and waterfowl like egrets, ducks, flycatchers, herons, hawks, and eagles. Keep Columbus Beautiful and the City of Columbus provided disposal support for all items collected by the Texas Master Naturalists.
