The Crowley Fish Foundation (CFF) has been selected as one of three finalists for the potential Nonprofit of the Year 2026 for Mammoth Lakes, a recognition that highlights the organization's ongoing contributions to the region. Voting for this prestigious award is currently open exclusively to members of the Chamber, with the anticipated announcement of the winning nonprofit scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2026.
Simultaneously, CFF is preparing for its 12th Annual Owens River Clean Up, an important community event dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of the Owens River. This year's cleanup is set to take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, running from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm. Volunteers and community members interested in participating are directed to Pleasant Valley Campground, the designated location for this yearly effort.
The annual Owens River Clean Up underscores CFF's sustained commitment to environmental stewardship in Inyo County. For over a decade, this event has brought together individuals and groups focused on maintaining the river's pristine condition, which benefits local wildlife, residents, and the numerous visitors who come to the Eastern Sierra for outdoor recreation. The consistent organization of the cleanup, now in its twelfth year, demonstrates a long-term dedication to the health of this vital waterway and surrounding areas.
The nomination of CFF as a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year speaks to the foundation's positive impact beyond just cleanup efforts, acknowledging its broader role in the community. The selection process, open to Chamber members, suggests a recognition of CFF's operational integrity, community engagement, and the value it provides to the Mammoth Lakes area and, by extension, the broader Eastern Sierra region, including Inyo County.
In addition to the river cleanup, Saturday, October 3, 2026, will also see another outdoor-focused event in the area: the Eastern Sierra Tenkara Boot Camp. This boot camp is scheduled to take place in Bishop on the same date, offering an opportunity for enthusiasts of Tenkara, a traditional Japanese method of fly-fishing, to engage with the sport. The concurrent scheduling of these events highlights the region's rich offerings for outdoor activities and community involvement, catering to both conservation efforts and recreational pursuits.
These upcoming events and announcements provide timely information for Inyo County residents and visitors alike. The river cleanup offers a direct opportunity for community participation in environmental preservation, while the Tenkara Boot Camp adds to the array of specialized outdoor recreation available. As the community anticipates the results of the Nonprofit of the Year award, the ongoing work of organizations like the Crowley Fish Foundation continues to play a significant role in enhancing the quality of life and natural environment of the Eastern Sierra.
