Interest in the health and well-being of the Cacapon River is apparent, as a standing-room-only crowd attended the May 5th meeting of the Friends of the Cacapon River in Capon Bridge. This gathering of river enthusiasts was billed as a fun, social gathering of all who love the river and want to support activities to protect it—which is certainly what it was!

Hosted at The River House in Capon Bridge, the more than 45 attendees listened to short presentations by President Rachel D’Agostino and Board Member Tim Reese. They also enjoyed entertainment provided by musicians Mike and Jo Everson and juggling storyteller Jimi Dennison. The event was sponsored by Danny Riggleman of WV Land & Home Realty, Taproot Farm, and Mountain View Solar.

Everyone was encouraged to make a public comment to WV Department of Environmental Protection concerning the need for enhanced testing of the wastewater treatment plant. The public comment period ends on May 17, and we are still encouraging citizens to email WVDEP with the following statement: “For the Town of Capon Bridge wastewater treatment plant, require a minimum of 2 effluent samples and laboratory tests per month by an independent testing agency.” Comments can be submitted by email to [email protected]. There are only TWO days left to make your comments to DEP, so please do so today!

Our president Rachel D’Agostino updated the gathering of recent the successful trash clean-up near Great Cacapon. She also reported on the new river access improvements pending at Great Cacapon and in Capon Bridge, as well as our soon-to-be-released Cacapon River Stewardship Guide. Finally, Rachel announced the use of a new Water Reporter app that will allow boaters to identify and record river issues, river animals, and fish, among other things, via photos with their smartphone.

Many thanks to all who attended!