Cape Fear River Watch announces upcoming community events, cleanups and educational programs
WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Cape Fear River Watch is inviting residents to participate in several upcoming events focused on water quality, environmental education and protecting local waterways.
The organization has announced four events throughout November, including a PFAS educational session, a community cleanup, its annual membership meeting and a Friendsgiving paddle.
PFAS and Health Resource Night — Friday, Nov. 13
Cape Fear River Watch will partner with the GenX Exposure Study to host a free community resource night at Warner Temple as part of the PFAS & Health educational series.
The event will feature information tables hosted by Cape Fear River Watch, PFAS scientists and community resource organizations.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to hear a brief presentation from an expert and participate in a question-and-answer session.
The event is free and open to the public.
Burnt Mill Creek Cleanup — Saturday, Nov. 14
Cape Fear River Watch will team up with Keep New Hanover Beautiful for its final community cleanup of 2026.
Volunteers will focus on the Burnt Mill Creek watershed, specifically along the service road off Shirley Road in Wilmington.
Organizers say the area has been a focus of cleanup efforts for decades, including work by Cape Fear River Watch founding member Dickson Baldridge in the 1990s.
While the watershed has seen improvements over the years, organizers say continued cleanup efforts are needed to protect the urban waterway.
Those interested in volunteering can find more information and register at tr.ee/cleanup.
Annual Membership Meeting — Sunday, Nov. 15
Cape Fear River Watch will host its annual membership meeting at its office, located at 617 Surry St. in downtown Wilmington.
The meeting is open to current members and those interested in joining the organization.
Cape Fear Riverkeeper Kemp Burdette will provide an overview of the organization’s work throughout the year.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to meet staff, volunteers and the organization’s new water quality programs manager.
Current members will be able to vote for the organization’s new board of directors.
Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing morgan@cfrw.us.
Friendsgiving Paddle & Potluck — Saturday, Nov. 21
Cape Fear River Watch will wrap up its 2026 paddling season with its annual Friendsgiving Paddle & Potluck.
Participants will paddle along the Brunswick River before gathering at Davis Creek Park for a shared meal and an opportunity to reflect on the year’s activities.
Organizers say the event is intended to celebrate the local river basin and the community members who help support its protection.
Registration and additional information are available at tr.ee/cfrwpaddle.
Cape Fear River Watch says the events offer opportunities for residents to learn more about local environmental issues, volunteer and connect with others who share an interest in protecting the Cape Fear River basin.
