OPERATION CLEAN STREAM at Simpson Lake

IT'S PAYBACK TIME, YAK PACKERS**!** A bunch of us do this every year, and we have a ball! Super fun day, and you feel really good when you finish...even if you are filthy and stinky!

This is the link to sign up for Simpson. I usually handle the registration, we go as a group and reserve several canoes. Sign up on this meetup site, so I know how many canoes to reserve.

- Operation Clean Stream — Open Space STL

In 2023, we were caught in a huge thunderstorm coming across the lake, but we were cleaner than usual when we landed. In 2024, we had a campout planned and missed this. We were all super disappointed, it's such a fun day. In 2025, we came home with tables, cages, tires and a bunch of good stuff.

There are also locations along the Meramec River, but you have to sign up early for those spots. Registration just opened July 1st. If you want to do a river route instead of Simpson, use the link above and go on your own. You will need a buddy in your canoe, so bring a friend.

You absolutely do NOT want to use your own kayaks, especially inflatables. We pick up tires, bicycles, soccer balls and a ton of plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Look at the picture above. That's us.

They provide a lunch for all volunteers, from all locations, after the cleanup. Usually there are t-shirts and other give-aways. This year, it's going to be held at Simpson Lake pavilion. Can't get much easier than that. Hot dogs, soda/water/beer and great company. A lot of people show up for the after party.

DO NOT BRING YOUR OWN BOAT.

***DO NOT BRING YOUR DOG! ***

You might have some nasty stuff or sharp objects in your canoe. This involves sometimes nosing your boat into the bank to grab junk. You don't need a furball up front blocking your way or trying to go ashore. Plus, lots of sharp edges.

There is also a land based cleanup, but wear high top boots if you plan to do that. There may be more canoes available on a first come/first serve basis. There were extras last year.

Bring your PFD, just in case, but I plan to use theirs. It's a very dirty day for us, and hopefully they provide nasty PFDs. They do provide gloves, paddles and trash bags. You will have to sign a waiver before you join in.

With all of the enjoyment we get out of Simpson Lake, I hope that some of our people will join in to help remove the trash that we always complain about.