Posted by Robin Maynard on Friday, October 24th, 2025 3:13pm.

Celebrate the beauty of South Walton’s natural landscapes by giving back to the waters that make this area so special. On Thursday, October 31st, the Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance (CBA) invites locals and visitors alike to take part in a Coastal Dune Lakes Paddle Clean-Up at Eastern Lake — one of our region’s most beloved dune lakes.
Participants are encouraged to bring their own kayak, paddleboard, or canoe, along with personal safety gear. A limited number of kayaks will be available to early arrivals on a first-come, first-served basis.
Don’t forget the essentials: water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and bug spray. The CBA will provide gloves and garbage bags, ensuring volunteers have what they need to make a difference while keeping the day safe and enjoyable.
Our Coastal Dune Lakes are rare and remarkable ecosystems, found in only a few places in the world — including right here along Florida’s Scenic 30A. These freshwater lakes occasionally exchange water with the Gulf of Mexico, creating a unique and delicate balance that supports countless species of plants, fish, and wildlife.
By joining this clean-up, you’re helping protect more than just one lake — you’re contributing to the health of an entire coastal system that defines the natural beauty and biodiversity of South Walton.
The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance is a non-profit organization committed to preserving our local waterways through scientific monitoring, habitat restoration, and community education. Their hands-on programs, like shoreline restorations, oyster reef building, and educational outreach, ensure that the waters we enjoy today remain vibrant for future generations.
Learn more about their work at basinalliance.org.
This clean-up is the perfect follow-up to our recent story celebrating Dune Lakes Month. If you missed it, check out our previous post:
Celebrate Walton County’s Coastal Dune Lakes Week, October 27–31, 2025
Enjoying the 30A coastline goes hand in hand with protecting it for generations to come.