UPDATE from 2023 event: The Swap n’ Sale was a big success! We had some rain, but we made the best of it, and we made lots of sales, from tiny treasures and trinkets. Even though we were busy, there was plenty of time to mingle and reconnect after a long winter. New friendships were formed and even a few new paddle partners! With over 20 participants with items, image the variety that surfaced and became other persons treasure.

We collected 206 pieces of garbage and well, weird unidentifiable objects that may or may not be of this earth. The jury is still out on that one. We didn’t find another Sylvie (our last years stuffed animal find) or a relative to him but we’re always on the lookout for things that DO NOT BELONG in the lake, like trash, cigarette buts, beer cans, etc. Thanks for helping us keep our lake clean, all the kind comments and the support!

Head on over to the Sylvan Lake Summer Swap at the Community Center for item drop off 8-10AM with all your summer-related swap treasures including boards, paddles, water gear, sports gear, apparel, and accessories. The event goes from 11A - 4P This community event will help you get to know your neighbors and witness firsthand all the weird stuff they wear and do. Not that any of us are judging because let’s face it, none of us are immune to that life jacket or cracked surf board we just can’t seem to let go of.

The first annual Sylvan Summer Swap & Sale all started last year, May 1st 2022. It was a splendid day of swaps, sales, trash pick up with Great Lakes Great Responsibility and a water safety basics forum. Last year we were able to collect 393 pieces of litter around our waters edge. Prevention work that keeps our lake healthy along with the surrounding Great Lakes.

This year plan for the same type of day. Grab your gear, outdoor equipment, backyard unwanted items and head over to the Sylvan Lake Community Center on April 30th. Checking in items start at 8am and the event goes from 11am - 4pm. One to multiple items is encouraged for participation. Also make sure the items are in good working condition. Not accepting personal items, such as shoes or clothes.

Wondering more? Here are a few examples to consider.

- Swapping scenario - You have a 2 person kayak and would like to swap for a 1 person kayak.

- Donating scenario - Drop off with no strings attached.

- Sale scenario - Attaching a fee to the item and returning to collect payment at 4pm. If the item does not sell, please return to collect all unwanted items.

Here is an outline to participate:

-What kind of items to bring: Summer related objects from kayaks, beach games, backyard equipment, lake gear, and camping or recreational related objects.