COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho (May 29, 2026) – Professional divers, volunteers, and community partners came together along the shores of Lake Coeur d’Alene on May 26 with a shared goal of caring for the places that make Idaho unforgettable. Hosted by Marine Rescue CDA in partnership with Visit Idaho through its Travel With Care program and Hagadone Marine Group, the community cleanup at Lake Coeur d’Alene and Tubbs Hill removed a total of 1,175 pounds of trash and debris from the lake and surrounding shoreline.
Throughout the day, volunteers worked along trails, beaches and public shoreline areas while professional divers recovered debris from beneath the surface of the lake. The Idaho Department of Transportation assisted by weighing the collected materials, helping demonstrate the collective impact of the effort. From discarded metal and plastics to submerged tires and even an oven pulled from the lake bottom, the cleanup highlighted both the importance of stewardship and the community’s commitment to protecting one of Idaho’s most treasured outdoor spaces.
“Lake Coeur d’Alene is a place that means something to people,” said Captain Austin with Marine Rescue CDA. “Seeing volunteers, divers, local businesses and families come together to care for the lake in such a hands-on way was very meaningful. Removing more than 1,100 pounds of stuff is a huge accomplishment, but even more important is the sense of responsibility and pride this community showed throughout the day.”
Supported by Visit Idaho’s Travel With Care program, the event encouraged both residents and visitors to help preserve the landscapes and outdoor experiences that define Idaho.
“Some of Idaho’s most memorable moments happen in places like Lake Coeur d’Alene,” said Cristin Wondergem with Visit Idaho. “Travel With Care is about recognizing that these experiences come with a shared responsibility. This cleanup showed what’s possible when a community comes together to protect a place they love, ensuring it remains beautiful and welcoming for future generations.”
In addition to debris removal efforts, the event created opportunities for community connection, environmental education and local engagement reinforcing a shared commitment to keeping Coeur d’Alene clean, safe and accessible for all who visit and call it home.
The cleanup was also supported by several local organizations and businesses, including Proactive Armed Security & Patrol, Grand View Windows, Huber Trailers, Subsalve USA, Coeur d’Alene Clothing Company, Mustang Survival and Precision Propeller, along with additional community partners who contributed supplies, prizes and volunteer support.
Images and b-roll of the event can be found here. Please give photo credit to Visit Idaho and Marine Rescue CDA as outlined in the folders. For more information about Visit Idaho’s Travel With Care program, visit visitidaho.org/care.
About Visit Idaho
Visit Idaho invites travelers to explore a land of striking contrasts and endless possibilities. From rugged, forested peaks to wide-open high desert, the Gem State delivers experiences shaped by terrain, season and spirit. Whitewater rafting, championship golf and unforgettable road trips pair with local food, culture and stories rooted in Western heritage. Travel here is guided by respect—for the land, the communities and everyone who shares them—so these places endure for generations. Start your adventure at visitidaho.org and order or download your free Official Idaho Travel Guide. Learn more about Idaho’s tourism industry at industry.visitidaho.org.
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