Numerous observations have been made concerning illegal dumping of trash alongside roads and streams near the Kentucky River in Lee County. As these issues continue to rise, so does the demand for more civic engagement projects and the teaching of environmental education among the community. The Lee County 4-H Teen Club wanted to create an educational program explaining the importance of clean waterways in Lee County. Based on their observations they found numerous examples of illegal dumping and trash along banks of the Kentucky River, especially the Beattyville Boat Ramp. Under the direction of the 4-H Youth Development Agent along with extension specialists, the teens planned to follow the citizen science model and conduct water quality testing and trash clean-up at the Beattyville boat ramp along the Kentucky River. Once completed the teens then revisited the site at the end of a 6-month period and then retested the water quality in the area. The Lee County 4-H Teen Club also created posters, submitted articles for the local newspaper, and spoke with students at the Lee County Middle School on the importance of reducing waste, recycling, proper waste/management, as well as maintaining clean streams and waterways. All teens in the program identified that they now see the importance of taking care of their counties water sources, and feel this experience has helped foster their problem-solving skills and the importance of civic engagement. The 4-H Teen Club wants to make this mission sustainable and continue cleaning waterways in Lee County and increase community involvement in the efforts for years to come. The 4-H Agent feels this process has been great for the 4-H Teen Club members and by completing the entire process members have enhanced their leadership skills and have been able to further identify issues and implement change to better their communities.