12-day paddling expedition promoting Ohio River conservation, recreation ends in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A team of volunteers and college students arrived in Louisville by canoe Thursday after a 12-day paddling expedition along the Ohio River.

The Ohio River Way challenge, in its fifth year, started in Ashland, Kentucky, and Ironton, Ohio, and ended in Louisville.

The volunteers and students completed a 308-mile journey, all to promote river recreation and conservation work for the Ohio River. Canoers would paddle around 25 miles up to 12 hours a day, stopping and eating at local eateries, and then camp for the night.

The team made several stops along the way, speaking with state representatives and community members about keeping the Ohio River clean and to discuss different ways to utilize the river.

"At every single stop, there's energy around the river, folks talking about new trails they want to see, connectivity between the communities so people can hike, paddle or cycle for long periods at a time like we're doing and experience the beauty of our region," said Forest Clevenger, a member of Ohio River Way. "I do have hope for the river and the future it holds in this community."

The team has also been documenting and tracking trends with debris and trash found in the river.

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