From plants and bouncy houses to dog training exhibits and incredible food, the first annual (SRWA) Soque River Watershed Association’s Fall Festival filled the day with fun for all ages. Brad Coppedge SRWA’s Board President said many people came together to make the day happen. “It was a day to celebrate the community, the Soque River, the fall season, and the renaming of the Greenway to the Soque Greenway Trail.”
On Wednesday, October 9, the Habersham County Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the community to come and see the renamed and remodeled trail.
Much work has gone into preserving the trail since the Soque River Watershed Association and the City of Clarkesville took over management of The Greenway in Clarkesville behind the Old Clarkesville Mill in May of 2024.
RELATED: Soque Greenway Trail: new name, new plan, new phase in Clarkesville
The weather for the festival couldn’t have been more perfect for those who came and took it all in. If you are a plant enthusiast, vendors were there selling plants and trees. Foodies enjoyed Sweet Breads of Demorest’s delicious lunch. I Do Weddings and Events provided games and bouncy houses for the kids, and Habersham County Animal Care and Control’s Director Madi Nix brought several potential adoptees for families to consider.
Jorie Stephens of SouthPaws Sports Scenter in Cleveland, Georgia, offered training classes and demonstrated what agility classes are and how much fun dogs and owners alike can have together.
The Georgia Bee Girl, Chloe McCrackin, a young entrepreneur, set up shop to sell her harvested honey, honey suckers, jewelry, and treats.
It was also a day of learning. Ethel Fern who is a Board Member as well as a volunteer for the SRWA was available to talk with people about all the SRWA has to offer. “We have a stain the bridge project at the Soque Greenway Trail Wednesday through Friday, October 16 to 18. Please come out and help us get this done.”
Rain Barrell kits were available to purchase, and several volunteers were on hand to speak to those interested in ways to preserve our waters.
Those interested in volunteering to help with the bridge, please call Ethel at 404-583-0985. The project starts at 9 a.m. with work ending at 4 p.m. each day.
If you missed out this year, be on the lookout for more opportunities to experience all the Soque River Watershed Association is doing for the community and our beautiful river.
