DUBOIS — The Patoka Lake Watershed Steering Committee has officially announced its annual Patoka Lake Clean Up Day, scheduled for Saturday, September 26, 2026. Held in conjunction with National Public Lands Day, this year’s event carries a massive milestone, marking the committee’s 20th anniversary cleanup of the local waters and shoreline.
To celebrate two decades of community-led environmental conservation, organizers have revealed that special drawings, activities, and milestones will take place throughout the day to honor the achievement.
The event will kick off promptly at 8:00 a.m. at the Patoka Lake Corps of Engineers office, located at 4512 North Cuzco Road in Dubois.
Making an Impact: 25 Tons of Trash and Counting
Since the committee launched its initial cleanup push in 2008, the surrounding community has stepped up in a big way. Over the past 18 years, more than 2,000 dedicated volunteers have mobilized to clear nearly 25 tons of garbage and debris from Patoka Lake’s waters, beaches, and surrounding parks.
Because the cleanup is designed to accommodate participants of all ages and physical abilities, families and individuals are highly encouraged to come out and help continue this legacy of environmental stewardship.
All essential cleanup gear—including trash bags, gloves, and grabbers—will be fully provided to volunteers upon arrival.
Registration, Dress Code, and the Fish Fry Reward
Preregistration is not required for individuals; participants can simply sign up on-site the morning of the event. Upon registration, volunteers will receive a brief safety meeting and be assigned a specific local sector to collect trash and targeted recyclables.
However, organizers have issued a strict safety dress code to protect participants in brushy terrain. To take part in the event, all volunteers must wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and long pants.
The hard work wraps up at 11:00 a.m., when all volunteers are invited to gather back at the Patoka Lake dam for a celebration of their morning’s labor. The after-party features:
- A completely free, fresh fish fry lunch.
- Custom volunteer goodie bags.
- Special door prizes and landmark 20th-anniversary prize drawings.
Group Registration and Contact Details
While individuals are free to show up the morning of the event, organizers ask that large service organizations, scout troops, and youth groups register in advance so the committee can properly allocate supplies and food. Groups can lock in their spots by calling the Patoka Lake Nature Center at 812-338-5589 (ext. 3).
For general inquiries, project questions, or sponsorship opportunities, community members can reach out directly to the event coordinator via email at emily.russell@in.nacdnet.net or follow the Patoka Lake Watershed Steering Committee Facebook page for real-time weather and event updates.
