Adopt-A-River Program Awaits Formalizing Paperwork

Pulaski County CourthousePulaski County appears to be ready to move ahead with its “Adopt-A-River” program.

The proposal was made several weeks ago after a bump in tourism traffic along the Tippecanoe River created an increase in noise and litter along the entry points. Pulaski County has worked diligently to advertise itself to city-dwellers as an escape and recreational area. Advertising was conducted in Chicagoland during game shows and the Country Music Awards in April of this year.

Pulaski County CDC Executive Director Nathan Origer says there’s still a bit of work to do.

“We don’t have a formal approval yet because I have not submitted the paperwork, but informally the state has given us the green light on the Adopt-A-River signage program,” says Origer.

In response to what appears to be some success from the tourism promotions, the CDC has developed signage along ramp access points for the river in an attempt to still encourage tourists, but not disrupt the lives of Pulaski County residents.

Topics such as reducing noise levels, water safety, and reminders to prevent trash and litter will be present on the signs.

Origer says Indiana has, in the past, had a similar program that was defunded.

“Now they somehow have the funding for an Adopt-A-Ramp program – which is actually targeting what we’re targeting: the access points,” says Origer.

Language changes on the signs were suggested before acting as rules for river patrons and tourists.

The CDC says they are continuing to work on how to best manage any volunteers that come forward to participate in the clean-up and maintenance efforts under the Adopt-A-River program.