Since 2015, GreenWorks has been working to perfect the 24/7 litter capturing device.
Enter… the Trash Trout Jr!
The litter traps on our Trash Trout Jrs work all day, every day to prevent trash from reaching our rivers. The majority of litter is single-use plastic, and most of it is not recyclable. These devices are less expensive to build and easier to maintain that our larger Trash Trouts, and they are perfect for small streams and tributaries — meaning we’re able to capture and remove litter earlier in its “life in the water.” This all means less photodegradation, less exposure to aquatic life, and less negative impact on water quality.
In 2020, we added 3 new Trash Trout Jr locations: Smith Mill Creek, Haw Creek, and Hayes Run Creek (Madison County). We also built 2 others, to be installed in 2021. These devices are checked regularly, especially after large rain events, and are cleaned out by staff, interns, and volunteers.
Wanna be a hero? We’re kicking off our Adopt a Trash Trout program! If you’d like to get more involved in protecting our waterways, and if you love the Trash Trouts (because who doesn’t?!) – find more information and sign up at https://bit.ly/2W2y0iR
Grants from The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina have helped fund our Trash Trout program since 2017, and local sponsors provide support for annual maintenance and cleanouts. Let’s give them all a HUGE thank you:
Smith Mill Creek: Sponsored by New Belgium Brewing and Southern Appalachian Anglers
Town Branch Creek: Sponsored by Sitework Studios and Wedge Brewery
Hayes Run Creek: Sponsored by Ivy River Partners and Sustainable Madison
Hominy Creek: Sponsored by Zen Tubing and Pisgah Plants
Mud Creek: Sponsored by Hendersonville, NC City Government and Pisgah Plants