Mitch’s Island is a beloved area for day users and campers on the Connecticut River, but river users have recently expressed concern about intensive use and unsafe activities taking place there. On Monday August 24, at 9 am, we need volunteer boaters to help clean up the island. Registration is required to participate.

We are looking for volunteers who can provide their own motorized watercraft to help transport trash and debris off Mitch’s Island. Pontoon boats will be particularly helpful. We need both (1) volunteers to help carry items from the island interior, and (2) boaters for transport, so feel free to form a small team associated with your boat. (Please note: We cannot accommodate volunteers who are not part of a team with a boat.) You may bring a shovel or other tool to help gather and carry trash and debris. You will need to provide your own gloves and mask. Police officers will be assisting with this workday for your safety.

The 2020 season has seen excessive cases of extreme disregard for the land, public safety, and public health, so the island must be temporarily closed to public use as Kestrel Land Trust continues to work with other landowners and our partners on a land and recreational management approach for the future. Kestrel is collaborating with local law enforcement on a temporary closure plan for the island. Long-term campers will be served notice by law enforcement officers to remove their belongings from the island. This all-island cleanup workday with law enforcement officers and volunteers like you will help to restore the land to a more natural state. There is likely to be some large debris so we can use all the helping hands (and boats) we can get!

REGISTRATION AND A SIGNED WAIVER ARE REQUIRED TO PARTICIPATE. The clean-up will take place RAIN or SHINE.

Thank you for your willingness to help!