Clean the Dream

Is your favorite water looking a little hammered lately?  Seeing some disposable plastic bottles or jerky packaging floating in a prime back eddy? Well, you’re not alone — with usage of public resources comes impact, and the responsibility to take the high road from time to time and help to clean this crap up.

One of the Colorado’s most beloved and well known sections of quality water was noticed to have been taking a hit as of late, and local advocates have decided to do something about it.  The Charlie Meyers Recreation Area on the South Platte river between Spinney and Eleven Mile reservoirs, known throughout the state as the “Dream Stream”, has been slated for a dedicated community cleanup, the now 3rd annual “Clean the Dream”.  Scheduled for Saturday, August 4th, 2018, the event is being organized by advocate Brandon Kramer and promoted by angling industry legend Landon Mayer.

In a press release from the group, Mayer is quoted in support of the effort as saying,

“In addition to cleaning and protecting our resource, great companies that I am an ambassador for such as Yeti Coolers, Scientific Anglers, R.L. Winston, Bauer Reels, Black Bear Diner, Simms, Umpqua Feather Merchants, and Smith Optics have donated great items for our big raffle giveaway. 11 Mile State Park was kind enough to donate trash removal and tools for the day as well.”

“Local Trout Unlimited chapters, fly fishing clubs and fly shops will be helping spread the word,” added Landon. “The day will start with orange juice and donuts in the morning followed by some awesome grilled food in the afternoon compliments of Jack Shaw.”

Last year’s event saw the group of volunteers gather almost 600 pounds of trash and waste as shown in the accompanying photo.

“Don’t miss out on this great chance to give back to a wonderful resource that has given so many great memories to anglers,” said Mayer. “The event starts at the bridge parking lot on County Rd 59 at the Charlie Meyers SWA section of the South Platte River.”

Mayer, a local guide who became famous after documenting his catches and unorthodox methods on the Dream Stream, and subsequently writing the best selling book, “How to Catch the Biggest Trout of your Life”, has certainly been a beneficiary of the resource himself. His willingness to speak on behalf of it shows not only commitment to his craft, but to take a leadership role in promoting ethics and responsible use.

Area anglers wanting to get involved are encouraged to contact their local shops for additional information on carpooling and other ways to contribute.

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