What we’re about
CFL RECON is the proud recipient of the 2022 Citizen Conservation Award from The Wildlife Society, FL Chapter! We are humbled to be recognized alongside such esteemed environmental advocates like Florida Audubon and Dr. Tom Hoctor. CFL RECON would not have made it this far without the support of our members who take time out of their weekends to help restore the environment. We would also like to thank our supporters who graciously contribute cleanup supplies and equipment to our cause.
We are a group of friends and concerned citizens protecting Central Florida's surface waters and natural environment by removing trash and debris from lakes, rivers and streams. We work for the betterment of Central Florida's lakes and rivers so that the animals that live here will have fewer dangers in the forms of plastic and foam debris that we gather from the waterways and shorelines. All those who enjoy canoeing and kayaking and would have a couple hours a week to give are welcome!
The RECON fleet is growing and we currently have 9 kayaks available to use for our events. We also provide use of our litter removal equipment such as grabbers, gloves and bags for each of our clean-ups. Our outings are weekly and alternate between Saturday and Sunday mornings. During the fall and winter months, our cleanups start at 10am. Spring and summer cleanups start at 9am and we usually take some time off during the hottest months. The events usually last for about 2-3 hours including on-loading and off-loading of the kayaks.
Although we have kayaks available to use, feel free to bring your own canoe, kayak or paddle board! At most of our cleanup locations, shoreline volunteers are also welcome if you feel the urge to walk instead of being on the water.
Our group has worked in cooperation with other similarly guided organizations like the St. Johns Riverkeepers, Save the Manatee Club, Surfrider Foundation and countless neighborhood groups and HOAs dedicated to the betterment of the environment. Recently, some of our members took part in a successful initiative in Orlando to prohibit the use of styrofoam (No Foam Zone). If you are a part of an environmentalist organization or know of a waterway that needs a good cleanup, please reach out to us!
