A lot of foam was collected ruign the cleanup

HAWLEY - As part of an ongoing lake monitoring and cleanup effort, the Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed Management District, in cooperation with PPL, designated the holiday weekend as shoreline cleanup days.

About 130 people participated in the cleanup, dropping off 70 truckloads of dock debris at the PPL Wallenpaupack Environmental Learning Center.

The collected debris, which mostly consisted of pressure-treated lumber and Styrofoam, was disposed of by PPL.

“Old docks, and the Styrofoam and pressure-treated wood used in their construction, are not only unsightly but also can create a hazard on the shoreline, and when they get into the water they can be treacherous to boaters and water-skiers,” said Alex Zidock, LWWMD cleanup committee chairman. 

The cleanup was suggested by the Lake Wallenpaupack Public Advisory Committee, which brings together elected officials, community associations, government representatives and local business leaders to address issues that affect the quality of life of residents in the region.

“We are glad we were able to partner with the Watershed Management District to accomplish this for the community,” said Paul Canevari, PPL spokesperson. “The district’s goal, as well as ours, is to provide a clean and safe environment for all who use the lake.”

The group is considering making the cleanup an annual event.