The Crowley Fish Foundation (CFF) has been recognized as one of three organizations selected as a potential Nonprofit of the Year 2026 for Mammoth Lakes. This distinction places the CFF among a select group of community-focused entities vying for an annual award that acknowledges significant contributions to the local area. The voting process for this prestigious honor is currently underway and is open exclusively to members of the Chamber. This structure ensures that local business and community leaders play a direct role in selecting the recipient. The highly anticipated announcement of the chosen finalist is scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2026. The outcome of this vote will highlight an organization that has demonstrated exceptional service and impact within the Mammoth Lakes community throughout the year. The selection of finalists like the Crowley Fish Foundation underscores the active nonprofit sector in the region, which consistently works to enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. The award serves as a significant recognition within the local sphere, reflecting community appreciation and support for dedicated non-profit efforts. The upcoming announcement will mark a key moment for the foundation and the wider Mammoth Lakes nonprofit landscape.
Beyond the recognition within the nonprofit community, the region is also gearing up for its 12th Annual Owens River Clean Up. This long-standing environmental stewardship event is slated for Saturday, October 3, 2026. Participants are invited to join the efforts starting at 8:00 am and continuing until 12:00 pm. The central meeting point for all volunteers is the Pleasant Valley Campground. This annual initiative is critical for maintaining the ecological health and visual appeal of the Owens River, a vital natural artery running through the Eastern Sierra. For over a decade, this clean-up has fostered a strong sense of community responsibility, bringing together individuals dedicated to preserving local waterways. The sustained commitment to this event for 12 consecutive years illustrates the community's ongoing dedication to environmental conservation. Such efforts are essential not only for the immediate natural environment but also for the recreational opportunities that the river provides to locals and tourists alike. The organized event provides a structured way for community members to actively participate in the upkeep of their shared natural heritage, reinforcing the importance of collective action in environmental protection.
Concurrently on Saturday, October 3, 2026, the Eastern Sierra will host the Tenkara Boot Camp for 2026. This specialized event is scheduled to take place in Bishop. The boot camp is aimed at individuals interested in Tenkara, a traditional Japanese method of fly fishing. The coincidence of two distinct community events on the same day—the environmental clean-up and the specialized outdoor skills camp—offers diverse options for local engagement. While the Owens River Clean Up focuses on conservation and community service, the Tenkara Boot Camp caters to specific outdoor recreational interests. This dual scheduling on October 3 speaks to the varied fabric of activities available in the Eastern Sierra, appealing to different facets of community life and outdoor pursuits. Residents and visitors have the opportunity to choose between contributing to a significant environmental cause or learning a unique outdoor skill, demonstrating the breadth of local offerings. Both events contribute to the overall vibrancy and engagement within Inyo and Mono Counties, providing structured activities that enhance the community experience.
