LUDLOW, Vt. – Just days after the devastating floods blew through many of the communities of the Black River watershed, the all-volunteer Black River Action Team (BRAT) swung into action. BRAT Director Kelly Stettner credits the outstanding efforts of two local ladies who reached out to her, Melissa Rockhill and Laurie Marechaux, to see how they could help. Many area organizations were in full response mode, and BRAT was able to partner with the Okemo Valley Regional Chamber of Commerce, as well as Cavendish Connects, Ludlow Community Center, Black River Good Neighbor Services, Okemo Mountain School, and several others. Thanks to the incredible efforts of Melissa and Laurie, BRAT was able to intake offers of help that came by way of the State of Vermont’s portal, as well as through the Chamber and the Okemo Mountain School. Over 400 volunteers signed up to be “Mud Puppies” for BRAT, coming from near and far, bringing trucks and trailers, cases of water, and cleaning supplies.
Over the course of six weeks, more than 80 flood response projects were completed, many requiring return visits by the Mud Puppy crews. Work ranged from shoveling mud and removing flood-damaged furniture and appliances, to hauling loads of trash and debris to the local transfer station. BRAT continues to provide and offer work on storm water management and flood resilience projects, conducting site visits and discussing options with private homeowners, as well as with any municipalities impacted by the flood. Contact Kelly Stettner at blackrivercleanup@gmail.com, or by leaving your contact information at 802-738-0456.