Friends of the Tug Fork River is a nonprofit organization formed to preserve and protect the Tug Fork River and its watershed, raise awareness of its history, and develop recreation, tourism, and economic opportunities for our area.
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TIRE TUG-OF-WAR 2026
TIRE TUG-OF-WAR 2026
We will be working a waste-tire recovery project with WV DEP’s REAP program and Coalfield Development on Tuesday, August 25, and Thursday, August 27. Volunteers are needed to help with the project. Work will start at 9:00 but you are welcome to come and go as needed. The exact staging areas will be announced later.
Expect to get wet & dirty, and put in a hard day’s work. Waders are NOT recommended.
A grant from South Williamson Walmart will provide lunch for all involved.
These projects are very weather and river dependent! Postponement is not unusual. Check our website and/or facebook page for critical updates.
Mighty McDowell Water Trail Approved
Mighty McDowell Water Trail Approved
Friends of the Tug Fork River is excited to announce the approval of the Mighty McDowell Flatwater Trail, bringing a new designated water trail to McDowell County!
Stretching approximately 27 miles along the Tug Fork River, the Mighty McDowell will create new opportunities for kayaking, fishing, wildlife watching, and outdoor recreation while showcasing the rugged beauty, rich history, and communities of McDowell County.
The trail will feature designated public access locations, connecting communities including Welch, Davy, and Iaeger to the river. Plans include educational signage, fishing access, kayak launches at select locations, and online information to help paddlers plan their trips.
But designation is just the beginning. Developing the Mighty McDowell will take time as Friends of the Tug Fork River and our partners work to improve and construct access sites, install signage, and build the infrastructure needed to bring the full vision for the trail to life.
The Mighty McDowell builds upon the success of the Bloody Mingo Tug Fork River Flatwater Trail, further connecting communities along the Tug Fork and creating new opportunities for tourism, recreation, and economic development in Southern West Virginia.
This designation is the result of years of community support, planning, and partnership—and marks an exciting new chapter for the Tug Fork River.
Grab your paddle. The Mighty McDowell is calling!
We've removed over 19,000 tires from the Tug Fork River in 7+ years! But we've still got a lot of work to do! Learn more about the Tire Tug of War and find out how you can join us in our restoration efforts!
Support Our Cause & Snag Some Swag!
Support Our Cause & Snag Some Swag!
Do you want to do good and look good too? Make a donation in exchange for some custom locally designed and printed, Friends of the Tug Fork River gear! Stop by the office to see our full inventory and pick up your new hat, hoodie, or shirt today!
Find us at 25 E 2nd Ave, Williamson WV 25661.
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