Operation Big Sweep, the statewide annual operation to clean up the state's waterways is just around the corner and officials are looking for volunteers for the White Lake event. Governor Mike Easley has proclaimed Saturday, September 20, as Big Sweep Day in North Carolina this year.

Easley urges every citizen to do his or her part to restore the beauty and function of the state's lakes and streams by participating in the event.

Gloria Dove, Keep Bladen Beautiful and Big Sweep coordinator, says the White Lake Big Sweep, sponsored by Camp Clearwater and White Lake Motel and Campground, will begin with volunteer signup at White Lake Beach at 9 a.m. The site captain for this year's event is Cheryl Smith of White Lake.

Dove said that volunteers should wear a hat or visor, insect repellent and sunscreen, comfortable old work clothes, and work or rubber gloves.

"Do not go barefoot! Wear closed-toe shoes that you won't mind getting wet," said Dove. "Those who will be cleaning by boats should wear a life jacket. Any children who participate in the event must be supervised by an adult."

Fishermen, canoers, boaters and divers hit the water while others scour the shores and banks for litter, Dove explained.

"In the past, Scouts, families, 4-Hers, civic organizations, school groups and sports clubs have been favorite sweepers," Dove said. "We invite these folks to again come and be a part of this worthwhile project."

"In the past, this event has been very helpful in cleaning up the lake area," said Dove. "It makes a very important contribution to our efforts to beautify our area."

For more information or to designate other waterways, contact Dove at 645-4279 or 645-4270. Her office is located at the Bladen County Solid Waste Facility at 1522 Mercer Mill Road in Elizabethtown. For contacts in other counties, call 1-800-27-SWEEP.

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