Muhammed Ali once said ““Service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on Earth.” 

 What a fitting statement for Earth Day 2021. Eastern Tennessee is home to one of the most biodiverse watersheds in the US, supporting not only the wildlife, but also the recreational activities beloved by visitors.  So how can you serve this year?  Here are some events and activities you and your family can get involved with and enjoy a day of service:

April 24, 2021- Sign up for a lake clean-up on your favorite lake. Each spring, volunteers are busy removing the debris that is washed into the waterways during the winter and spring rains. If you love Cherokee Lake, join the group at 9:30 am at Lakeside Marina.  Boats will launch promptly at 9:30 am.

April 24, 2021- Hike MoCo’s “trash pick-up as we go” program.  Morgan County has some beautiful trails.  Join in on an organized hike and bring a bag.  To find an event, click here.

April 22-24, 2021- Join an Earth Day event at one of the eight state parks in the 9 Lakes Region.  Find a park and an event near you, click here.

When you visit, know before you go.  Pack out what you pack in; stay on the trails, only use local firewood in your campfires; and clean your hiking boats, bikes, tents, and gear so as not to introduce invasive species that can crowd out the native plants, fish, and wildlife found in this region.