Paddle Enthusiasts Unite: Join Friends of the Hocking River

Dear Friends,

Looking to get involved in the community? Looking for opportunities for social activism while making great friends in the process? Well then consider joining Friends of the Hocking River!
The Friends of the Hocking River (FOHR) was established in January 1999 by a group of individuals dedicated to preserving one of the area’s most scenic natural resources, the Hocking River. The mission of FOHR is to preserve the environmental integrity, educate the general public, and promote wise use of the Hocking River. Over the years FOHR has maintained its commitment to protect the Hocking River through annual river clean ups. Every year the FOHR pulled out everything from tires to bicycles to refrigerators. It is through these efforts that the 20 mile stretches from Sugar Grove to the 93 South Intersection is arguably the cleanest stretch of the entire river. Anyone that has paddled past the 93 intersection will notice an increase in debris, particularly tires. Pass the 93 junction there are banks and islands littered with trash. Some river islands contain up to twenty tires. Only an organized river sweep could efficiently clean some stretches. FOHR needs more members to maintain river clean ups and to possibly push past the 93 intersection to Haydenville and possible Nelsonville. Another reason to consider joining is the social aspect of FOHR
Although the main component of FOHR is to protect river quality, there is definitely a social aspect to the group. Community develops naturally when people share common interests for a just cause. It is no coincidence that all members are outdoor enthusiasts. Paddling is a release and members look for every opportunity to get on the river. Uniting and encouraging members to get on the river is one advantage of FOHR. Monthly trips are planned on the Hocking and other rivers throughout the state. FOHR is looking for new members who want to assist in clean-up efforts. Time commitments are only 1-2 hours a month. Meetings are on the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30pm at the Logan Library. The first meeting of the New Year is coming up this January 5th at 6:30pm. Please consider joining us then! For more information email us at shane.barbini@gmail.com