HARDWICK – A student-led cleanup effort to improve water quality along Cooper Brook resulted in the removal of 175 tires and additional debris, May 1.
photo by Vanessa Fournier
Many of the tires had been carried downstream during the July 2024 flooding and collected along the stretch of Cooper Brook near Atkins Field.
The project was initiated by Chelsea Ross, advisor to the Hazen Union Hatchery Club, who approached the Town of Hardwick last fall seeking a hands-on environmental project for students. After considering several options, tire removal from Cooper Brook was identified as a priority, with planning beginning earlier this spring.
photo by Vanessa Fournier
A total of 47 volunteers participated in the five-hour effort, including Hazen Union Hatchery Club members, community members, partner organizations and town staff.
“It was great to see everyone get so involved, and for students to really see the impact of their efforts,” said Chelsea Ross, a participating teacher.
The Center for an Agricultural Economy (CAE), Trout Unlimited (NEK Chapter), the Greensboro Association, Caledonia County Natural Resources Conservation District and the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department all participated in the clean-up.
Jud Kratzer, a fish biologist with Vermont Fish and Wildlife, provided support by bringing waders for students and assisting with in-stream work.
Town Manager David Upson was among those working in the brook to assist with tire removal throughout the day.
Volunteers worked in teams to remove tires from the brook, transport them up the banks and prepare them for disposal.
Half a dumpster of additional debris was also collected.
“Wow. Hardwick makes it happen!” said Ned Swanberg of the State of Vermont.
“In my opinion, one of the jobs of local government is to bring together a multigenerational group of citizens to accomplish a task that makes our community even better and more resilient,” said Upson.
“Something as simple as pulling tires and trash from a local brook shows how impactful we can be when we work together.”
The Greensboro Association provided financial support for the cleanup.
Removing debris such as tires can help reduce sediment buildup and limit the amount of material carried downstream during high water events.
Kristen Leahy serves as the resilience and adaptation coordinator for the Town of Hardwick.
