By Jeremy Pittari, Item Staff Writer
The Picayune Item
PICAYUNE —
Members of the Friends of Boley volunteer group are preparing their spring cleanup of Hobolochitto Creek.
The date is set for Saturday, April 20, to coincide with Earth Day, which will be the following Monday.
For the past two years the group has put forth efforts to get local volunteers to help remove snags and trash from the creek, not only to help keep the flow of the creek steady but to promote local awareness of the local waterway.
While only small water craft can easily navigate the Boley, it provides those willing to put in a canoe or kayak the opportunity to see a side of Pearl River County that can’t be seen from the roads.
For the past two years, several successful cleanups have been held. While the fall cleanup last year was not held because of the flooding that occurred shortly after Hurricane Isaac, the group will hold a cleanup this spring. The problem with holding the fall cleanup last year was because most of the board members were busy helping friends and family who were affected by the flooding from the hurricane, said board member Derek Turnage.
This spring’s cleanup will focus on the area cleaned up during the previous effort, which includes the creek from the bridge on Mississippi Highway 43 North, all the way to Burnt Bridge. Volunteers will have the option to get out about halfway at Long Bridge on Beech Street if they choose.
Friends president Keith Kingrey said he and some other concerned citizens and group members took a tour of the creek after the fall flood and a large snag has accumulated in the same spot as before in between Long Bridge and Burnt Bridge.
Another matter the group is working on involves acquiring 501c3 status, which will enable the organization to receive donations of land the group would like to use to build walking trails. Kingrey said if there is a local CPA willing to help the group acquire that status, the group would be very appreciative.
In other business, the board tabled electing board members to new positions until the members can get a clear idea of who will be able to put time into the group.
The ultimate goal of the group is to get the community involved along the creek, either with competitive events that involve boating or physical fitness, or with the planned nature trail.
Friends of Boley has a Facebook page where board members can be contacted and updates are posted.
