Tennessee’s lakes are some of the most beautiful places in the Southeast, drawing boaters, anglers, campers, and nature lovers year-round. But like many popular natural spaces, they’re not immune to pollution. From empty cans to abandoned fishing lines and floating plastic bottles, litter can pile up fast—especially in high-traffic areas. Over time, this not only ruins the view, it harms the ecosystem. That’s why lake cleanups have become such an important part of caring for the places we enjoy most. I’ve taken part in several local efforts, and over time I’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way when it comes to making these events safe, impactful, and sustainable. These are my best tips for responsible lake cleanups in Tennessee.
The state has hundreds of lakes—from large TVA reservoirs like Kentucky Lake and Watts Bar to quiet retreats like Laurel Hill or Pickwick—and each one needs regular attention. Whether you’re cleaning up solo, organizing a community effort, or jumping into a scheduled cleanup event, there’s a right way to go about it. Responsible lake cleanups aren’t just about picking up trash—they’re about protecting wildlife, respecting property boundaries, and ensuring that your efforts help more than they harm.
Planning the Cleanup Day
Before setting out with bags and gloves, a little preparation can make a big difference. I always start by checking with local park services or lake authorities to see if there are restrictions in place. Many Tennessee lakes fall under TVA, state park, or county management, and they may require permits or advanced notice for group cleanups.
It’s also helpful to scout the area ahead of time. This gives you a sense of how accessible the shoreline is, how much trash needs removing, and whether boats or kayaks will be needed for water-based debris. If it’s your first time organizing, start small—maybe a couple of hours with friends or neighbors. You’ll still make an impact.
Tools and supplies should be chosen with both efficiency and safety in mind. Here’s what I typically pack:
- Durable trash bags (contractor grade for sharp objects)
- Gloves—preferably reusable and puncture-resistant
- Grabbers or pick-up sticks
- Buckets or totes for sorting recyclables
- A basic first-aid kit
- Sunscreen, water, and snacks for the group
These essentials help ensure your cleanup is organized, safe, and productive.
Picking the Right Spot
Not all parts of a lake are equally in need of cleanup. Wind and current often push debris into coves, inlets, or areas near boat ramps and fishing piers. I’ve found that the best areas to target are those near:
- Public beaches
- Marinas and docks
- Campgrounds or picnic areas
- Inflow points from creeks or stormwater runoff
These spots tend to collect the most trash, especially after heavy weekend traffic or summer holidays.
If you have a kayak or small boat, you can also reach floating debris or items snagged on logs or vegetation just offshore. This makes it easier to tackle places that are harder to reach on foot.
Sorting and Disposing Responsibly
It’s not just about collecting trash—it’s also about sorting and disposing of it properly. One of the most overlooked tips for responsible lake cleanups in Tennessee is knowing how to handle what you find.
Tennessee offers many local recycling programs, but not every lake has nearby access to sorting facilities. I usually bring separate bags or buckets to separate:
- Plastic bottles
- Aluminum cans
- Fishing line or gear
- General trash
Used fishing line can be especially hazardous to birds and fish, so it should never be thrown away loosely. Many boat ramps or marinas have monofilament recycling bins for this exact purpose. If not, I bring it home and drop it off at a local tackle shop that accepts it.
Sharp objects like broken glass or rusted metal require extra caution. I always wear gloves when picking them up, and I keep them in a puncture-proof bucket or wrap them in cloth inside a bag to prevent injuries during disposal.
Respecting Wildlife and Natural Habitats
One of the most important parts of a responsible cleanup is making sure you don’t accidentally damage the very environment you’re trying to protect. During spring and early summer, many Tennessee lakes become nesting areas for birds, turtles, and other animals. Avoid trampling tall grasses or disturbing downed logs, as these may be sheltering wildlife.
If you encounter an animal entangled in debris, don’t attempt to free it unless you’re trained. Instead, contact local wildlife rescue services. The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) can assist or connect you with a licensed rehabilitator.
Being mindful of plant life is just as important. I’ve seen well-intentioned groups pull up entire patches of native aquatic vegetation thinking they were removing invasive species. Know what’s native to the lake you’re working on and avoid removing plants unless you’re certain they’re harmful to the ecosystem.
Working with Local Groups and Events
One of the best tips for responsible lake cleanups in Tennessee is to join forces with established organizations. Groups like Keep Tennessee Beautiful, Tennessee State Parks, and the TVA host scheduled events throughout the year. Not only do these cleanups come with built-in coordination and permits, but they also offer supplies and volunteer support.
You can also team up with local fishing clubs, scout troops, or environmental nonprofits. In my experience, collaborative events make for a more rewarding day—and often reach areas that individuals might overlook. These partnerships also help you stay informed about larger issues facing the lake, like invasive species or water pollution.
To get involved, I recommend checking the event calendars of:
- Keep Tennessee Beautiful
- Tennessee Environmental Council
- Tennessee Valley Authority
- Local lake associations or state park websites
Involving the Community
Lake cleanups are a great way to build community spirit. I’ve seen families, students, retirees, and businesses come together to make a real difference in just a few hours. The key is making it easy and inviting for people to participate.
Here are some simple ways to encourage involvement:
- Post flyers or social media invites in local groups
- Partner with nearby marinas or campgrounds
- Offer water and snacks to volunteers
- Set goals, like “20 bags in 2 hours” for motivation
- Share before-and-after photos to show impact
A shared meal after the cleanup—like a lakeside picnic or BBQ—also turns the day into a social event, reinforcing the value of working together.
Leaving No Trace During the Cleanup
Ironically, even cleanup events can leave a mess if not planned well. I always make sure we leave the site better than we found it—not just less trash, but also less disturbance.
Avoid bringing single-use plastics or disposable decorations to the event. If you’re handing out gloves, opt for reusable ones when possible. Bring bulk water containers instead of plastic bottles. Set up a “gear drop” station so people aren’t leaving their belongings around.
It’s also important to make sure your trash doesn’t blow away while working. I bring weights or use reusable bags that zip closed to avoid accidental litter during the cleanup itself.
Following Up After the Cleanup
The impact doesn’t end when the bags are full. A smart follow-up plan ensures your work leads to lasting change. I like to share photos and summaries with local officials or community groups, especially if we’ve cleaned public areas. This raises awareness and may lead to more resources for future cleanups.
If you’ve collected recyclable materials, follow through on delivering them to the proper facilities. And if you noticed repeat issues—like overflowing bins, fishing line buildup, or storm drain runoff—document these problems and report them to the lake authority or parks department.
Staying involved in the long term is one of the most valuable tips for responsible lake cleanups in Tennessee. A single cleanup helps, but regular attention makes the lake cleaner and healthier for everyone.
Inspiring Younger Generations
One of the most satisfying parts of lake cleanups is involving kids and teens. I’ve brought my nieces and nephews along several times, and it’s amazing how enthusiastic they become when they realize they’re helping the lake they love.
Make the experience fun and educational:
- Create a scavenger hunt for different types of trash
- Explain how pollution affects fish and turtles
- Let them count bags collected or weigh their total haul
- Reward them with a swim, paddle, or snack afterward
These early experiences can plant the seeds for lifelong environmental awareness.
Celebrating Success
After the work is done, don’t forget to celebrate. Whether it’s sharing photos online, thanking volunteers publicly, or tracking how many pounds of trash you removed, taking time to reflect reinforces the impact of your effort.
I like to keep a journal of the cleanups I participate in, with notes about how many people came, what we found, and how the lake looked afterward. It’s rewarding to look back and see how each event contributes to a cleaner, more beautiful Tennessee.
Final Thoughts
Lake cleanups might seem like a small gesture, but they make a huge difference. Every bottle, can, and fishing line pulled from the water is one less hazard for wildlife—and one more reason for locals and visitors to enjoy the lake. These tips for responsible lake cleanups in Tennessee are all about planning with purpose, working together, and staying mindful of the environment.
Whether you’re working solo, inviting your neighbors, or joining a larger organization, the effort you put in matters. Our lakes give us so much, and with a little time and care, we can give something back. The next time you visit your favorite Tennessee lake, consider bringing a trash bag—and maybe a few friends. The ripple effect is bigger than you think.