City of Hobart Seeks Volunteers for Lake and River Cleanup
- By: City of Hobart
- Last Updated: July 22, 2026
Water and land teams will remove litter and debris from Lake George and surrounding areas Sept. 19
The City of Hobart Clean Team will host a Lake and River Cleanup from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at Jerry Pavese Park, 500 S. Lake Park Ave.
Community members will work in designated water and land teams to remove litter and debris from Lake George, nearby shorelines and surrounding storm drains. Volunteers may select the team that best matches their abilities and available equipment.
“Keeping Hobart’s waterways clean is a responsibility we all share,” said Stephanie Luken, deputy engineer and Clean Team member for the City of Hobart. “This cleanup gives residents a direct opportunity to protect Lake George and the surrounding river system while working alongside others who care about our community.”
Water Team volunteers will travel along the edges of Lake George to locate and collect trash and debris. Participants must check in before entering the water and provide their own kayak, canoe or boat and personal flotation device. The Water Team cleanup will operate throughout the scheduled event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Land Team volunteers will collect litter and debris along designated sections of the shoreline and near surrounding storm drains. Each mapped walking route is less than one mile. Land Team volunteers may check in and participate at any point during the event.
“We designed the cleanup so volunteers can participate in the way that best fits their abilities and comfort level,” said Jillian Burton, sustainability director and Clean Team manager for the City of Hobart. “Whether someone joins us on the water or walks one of the land routes, every piece of debris removed helps protect local wildlife, improve water quality and preserve these natural spaces for the community.”
Cleanup supplies will be available at the registration area for volunteers on both teams. Available materials will include litter grabbers, heavy-duty trash bags, five-gallon buckets, work gloves, safety vests, bottled water, sunscreen, hand sanitizer and insect repellent.
Designated collection stations will be placed throughout the cleanup area for filled trash bags and larger debris. The Hobart Public Works Department will collect and remove materials left at those stations.
Participants should review the event map before arriving for information about registration, volunteer routes and debris collection locations.
Hot dogs and drinks will be provided to volunteers following the cleanup.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026
Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Location: Jerry Pavese Park, 500 S. Lake Park Ave., Hobart, IN 46342
Event Map: https://gis.cityofhobart.org/portal/apps/mapviewer/index.html?webmap=5a8a5bc79dcd43669d33ebe80050e4e7
About the City of Hobart
The City of Hobart is a community of approximately 40,000 residents located in Lake County, Indiana. Positioned at the crossroads of major transportation corridors and home to a historic downtown, Lake George, an extensive trail network, and a strong industrial base, Hobart serves as a regional destination for business, recreation, and community life. The City is committed to providing high-quality public services, supporting economic opportunity, investing in infrastructure, and enhancing quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. For more information, visit cityofhobart.org.
