From the Bottom Up: One Man’s Crusade to Clean America’s Rivers (National Geographic Books)

Chad Pregracke was a high school student when he first glimpsed the trash that littered the bottom of the Mississippi, a shocking sight that launched him on a quest to clean up the river. After four discouraging years seeking government help without success, he decided to take his fund-raising private—and a corporate sponsor decided to take a chance on this naïve but unshakably determined young man.

Author and crusader Chad Pregracke, with Jeff Barrow, chronicles his incredible journey cleaning up America’s rivers one tire at a time. The book shares Chad’s personal story and the beginning of his grassroots organization, Living Lands & Waters, which has captured America’s imagination and motivated thousands of people across the country to clean up our country’s rivers and waterways. What started as one man’s crusade has become an ever-evolving worldwide movement to educate people and connect them with their environment.

While working as a commercial shell diver in high school and college, Chad was overwhelmed by the amount of trash that littered the bottom of the Mississippi, a shocking sight that launched him on a quest to do something. After four discouraging years seeking government help without success, Chad took his fundraising efforts private. He landed a corporate sponsor who was impressed by the environmentalist’s determination, passion and drive to make a difference.

Ten years later, Chad’s one-man project has grown into a $500,000 operation with more than 60 sponsors. Chad has accepted numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Jefferson Award for Public Service, which is America’s version of the Nobel Prize for Public Service. His efforts have been featured on CNN, MSNBC, Today Show, and countless other national and regional news outlets. His grassroots, can-do spirit thrives aboard a 135-foot barge that serves as home base for Living Lands & Waters, a floating environmental classroom and an inspiration to people of all ages and backgrounds.

WATCH >> ReelCYCLE: The Rivers’ Garbage Man on CBS News Video, Chad Pregracke

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