A major conservation project is underway at Rock Creek Park to repair erosion damage caused by torrential rainfall last year.
"Keep Dawson County Beautiful has decided to come in and assist Rock Creek Park on an issue regarding flooding along the park's walkway and along the back soccer fields," said Kristi Hudson, the group's executive director.
"We are working on the creek flow and helping to re-establish the creek banks to better control the creek run and hopefully eliminate flooding in the near future at the back of the park."
Volunteers have spent many hours knee deep in a tributary that feeds the Etowah Rover clearing debris that washed into the creek over many months last year.
The group also removed thousands of pebbles that embedded themselves at the center of the creek to create a dual water flow.
While much of the debris is natural, including beaver dams and brush from the banks, the group has also pulled out construction materials, picnic utensils and children's toys from the creek bed.
Now in the second phase of a three part plan, Hudson said the project is the largest conservation mission the volunteer organization has taken on.
"It's a very large undertaking for Keep Dawson County Beautiful and one that we hope will be a huge benefit to the county, the park and residents using the facilities," she said.
Phase 3 of the plan will create a more manicured grassy area by excavating the current brush and thistle between the walkway and the water.
With a focus to bring meaningful change to the environment through quality of life services, Keep Dawson County Beautiful encourage citizens to take greater responsibility for Dawson County through available programs in litter prevention, solid waste planning and coordination, environmental education, beautification and conservation.
The group, which meets at 5 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at Fire Station No. 2, at 145 Liberty Drive, off Hwy. 53 East, is currently seeking new volunteer members.
For more information, call Kristi Hudson at (706) 344-3501.