Over Two Tons of Trash Removed During 2025 Upper French Broad River Clean-Up

May 20, 2025

Over Two Tons of Trash Removed During 2025 Upper French Broad River Clean-Up

80 Volunteers Collect 4,580 lbs. of Trash from the First 10 Miles of the French Broad River

ROSMAN, NC — On Saturday, May 17th, a passionate community of 80 volunteers came together for the annual Upper French Broad River Clean-Up, removing 4,580 pounds of trash from the first 10 miles of the river. Hosted by Headwaters Outfitters every May, this year’s cleanup served not only as an important community initiative but also as a tribute to longtime Headwaters employee Lec Hobbs, who dedicated many years to organizing and championing the event.

From tires and cones, to plastics and metal sheets, the group tackled the river and its banks with canoes and gloves in hand, reflecting Lec’s legacy of stewardship and community. A special reunion of former Headwaters employees marked the occasion, honoring Lec’s lasting impact on the business and the river he helped protect.

The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our community sponsors. We offer heartfelt thanks to:

French Broad Sponsors:
Brevard Insurance, Keystone Camp, PLATT, Explore Brevard, Transylvania County Tourism Development Authority, Jackson Kayaks

North Fork Sponsors:
Looking Glass Realty, Deerwoode Reserve, Badfish SUP

East Fork Sponsors:
Astral, First Citizens Bank, Ecusta Brewing Company, Noblebräu Brewing, Country Skillet, Transylvania County Solid & Waste, Town of Rosman

West Fork Sponsors:
Bracken Mountain Bakery, Pisgah Coffee Roasters, Local Harvester, John Wayne Hardison, Griffin Solid Waste, NCDOT, Pisgah Bakehouse

We also extend a special thank you to Seyl Park Photography for beautifully capturing the energy, teamwork, and spirit of the day.

This annual cleanup continues to showcase what’s possible when businesses, organizations, and individuals unite for the health of our waterways and the strength of our community.

For more information, or to get involved in future events, visit www.headwatersoutfitters.com or follow us on social media.