Headline: Cincinnati Volunteers Rally for 36th Annual Winton Lake Cleanup, Removing Trash and Preserving Wildlife
Subheadline: Hundreds of volunteers, including multi-generational families, gather to protect the lake’s ecosystem in a decades-long tradition.
CINCINNATI — For the 36th year in a row, volunteers from across southwest Ohio came together Saturday to restore Winton Lake’s shoreline, hauling out everything from discarded tires to an abandoned refrigerator in an ongoing battle against pollution.
More than 170 participants fanned out across multiple sites around the lake, filling bags with trash and debris as part of the annual cleanup—a tradition that began in 1988 and has since become a cornerstone of local conservation efforts.
A Family Affair
For Julia Brackett and her family, the event is a cherished ritual. Since 2014, they’ve dedicated one spring morning each year to combing the lake’s edges, a habit that started when their son was a Cub Scout.
“We meet new people, explore different spots, and do something meaningful together,” Brackett said. Over the years, their efforts have led to some surprising discoveries—including a floating refrigerator. “You never know what you’ll find,” she added with a laugh.
More Than Just Cleanup
While removing trash is the most visible outcome, organizers emphasize that the event plays a critical role in safeguarding the lake’s delicate ecosystem.
“This isn’t just about picking up litter—it’s about protecting the wildlife and water quality that depend on this watershed,” said Joe Von Allmen, a volunteer engagement specialist with Great Parks. “When people take responsibility for these spaces, the impact lasts long after the cleanup ends.”
Decades of Dedication
Since its inception, the Winton Lake cleanup has drawn consistent support, with volunteers removing tons of waste that could otherwise harm fish, birds, and plant life. This year’s haul included tires, coolers, and countless plastic bottles—items that, if left unchecked, could disrupt the lake’s natural balance.
For many participants, the event is as much about community as conservation.
“It may seem like a small act,” Brackett said, “but when everyone pitches in, it makes a real difference.”
As the sun set on another successful cleanup, organizers and volunteers alike looked ahead to next year—ready to continue a tradition that keeps Winton Lake thriving for generations to come.
— Reported by Nexio News
