Nearly 100 dedicated volunteers participated in the annual Plateau Pickup on Saturday, April 13, collecting more than 5.4 tons of roadside trash.
Starting at Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park, volunteers received assignments to clean up specific areas across, including downtown Highlands and highways 64, 28, and 106. After the cleanup, everyone gathered back at the park for a well-deserved lunch.
Volunteers picking up trash along Lower Lake Road.
“This event is a highlight of the year for me,” said Kaye McHan, executive director of the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands. “It showcases the strong dedication of our local residents to protecting and preserving our community.”
Plateau Pickup is organized by the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC with partnership and logistical support provided by Macon County Sheriff’s Office, US Forest Service, NC Department of Transportation, NC State Patrol, Town of Highlands, and Town of Highlands Police Department.
A volunteer picks up trash at Oak and Maple in Highlands.
Local companies and organizations including Hotwire Communications, Mindspring, Mountain Garden Club, Mountaintop Rotary, Old Edwards Hospitality Group and United Methodist Church Men’s Group provided volunteers.
For more information about the Highlands Chamber of Commerce/Visit Highlands, NC call 828-526-5841 or visit highlandschamber.org.