NARROWSBURG, NY — Since initiating its River & Shoreline Clean-up Grants program in 2014, the Upper Delaware Council (UDC) has awarded $51,923.72 to member municipalities to help keep the Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River and its banks pristine.

In 2024, the Towns of Deerpark and Highland opted to participate after submitting proposals on March 20 and April 22 respectively. They completed their clean-ups by the deadline. The UDC’s Operations Committee approved reimbursement of actual expenses totaling $3,520.59.

The Town of Deerpark focused efforts on the Hawk’s Nest area of the Route 97, a much-photographed winding hillside route that offers sweeping views from 200 feet above the river.

The town highway department conducted three multi-day sweeps after Memorial Day, Independence Day and Labor Day to pick up debris along a 2.9-mile section. The cost for labor, transportation and supplies was $2,800.59.

The Town of Highland subcontracted with Matt Sallusto from NextGen Property Services to organize a river and roadside clean-up from Minisink to Barryville. With volunteer help and donated hauling and disposal fees for the collected trash, the discounted rental cost for a 20-yard dumpster stationed at Kittatinny Canoes Barryville base was $720.

Visit www.upperdelawarecouncil.org for more information.