More than 50 volunteers participated in the Lake James Clean up and removed over 1,600 lbs of trash on Saturday, October 3, 2020. N.C. Cooperative Extension’s Keep McDowell Beautiful program partnered with the Catawba Riverkeeper, Lake James Environmental Association, Moose Lodge #1705, the Arbor neighborhood residents, and other local groups to coordinate the event. Lake James State Park hosted the dumpsters and headquarters for the event at Hidden Cove Boat Ramp. Staff from the State Park also helped to haul trash from the boats up to the dumpster. The dumpsters were provided by McDowell County Public Works. Volunteers had beautiful weather and lower water conditions to aid them in removing litter and trash from the lake and its shore. Broken fishing poles, parts of docks, children’s toys, cans, bottles, and tires were among the items removed this year.