Pendleton County, Kentucky – [April 23, 2025] – Pendleton County Tourism and the Butler Lions Club are leading a comprehensive community initiative known as The Boo Project, honoring the legacy of Robert “Boo” Singleton—an environmental steward and lifelong resident who dedicated his life to cleaning and protecting the Licking River and its surrounding landscape.
This multi-faceted project includes the construction of a public access boat ramp at Butler Community Park, the development of an outdoor educational classroom walking path, and the installation of a memorial monument to celebrate Boo’s enduring impact. These efforts aim to improve river access, foster environmental stewardship, and create new tourism and outdoor educational opportunities in Pendleton County.
A key part of the initiative is the first annual Boo Singleton River Sweep, a community volunteer cleanup event scheduled for June 7th. Pendleton County Tourism and the Butler Lions Club have submitted a Watershed Grant application to the Kentucky Waterways Alliance to help fund this single-day effort. The grant would support debris removal, cleanup supplies, safety gear, and canoes for future river cleanups. It would also help address non-point source pollution—a key water quality concern. If awarded, Pendleton County will be notified in mid-May. The June 7th River Sweep will proceed regardless of the grant outcome. Volunteers—including friends of Boo and local citizens—will sweep the Licking River from Boston through Butler to Caldwell Island in Demossville, as well as conduct roadside cleanup along the route.
While the Watershed Grant supports the June 7th cleanup, The Boo Project as a whole is being made possible through donations and in-kind contributions from individuals and community partners. These funds will help construct the public boat ramp, install the walking path with interpretive signage, and place a permanent memorial monument at Butler Park. The monument dedication is planned for September 20th—just a few days before Boo’s birthday—and will serve as a lasting tribute to his devotion to Pendleton County’s environment and people.
The new public access ramp will also open up a previously unreachable stretch of the Licking River, allowing residents and tourists to paddle and explore a scenic section that previously lacked formal put-in/take-out access—further connecting people to nature and boosting eco-tourism in the region.
To make a tax-deductible contribution toward The Boo Project, donations can be made by check to the Pendleton County Tourism Council and mailed to PO Box 12, Falmouth, KY 41040, or online at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/donation-form/the-boo-project.
Community partnerships and contributions thus far include support from the Pendleton County Cooperative Extension Office, City of Butler, Pendleton County Fiscal Court, Pendleton County Tourism Commission, Pendleton County Conservation District, Butler Lions Club, Three Rivers Health Department, Pendleton County Tourism Council, Pendleton County Solid Waste, and the 109 Board. These organizations are playing a vital role in bringing Boo’s vision to life. Presentations are ongoing, and the list of contributors continues to grow.
Pendleton County lost a true environmental steward—a homegrown son who, in his later years, gave back to the place he loved most. With pride and purpose, Boo spent countless hours floating the Licking River and walking county roadsides, removing debris and restoring the natural beauty of the area. His not-so-quiet, consistent efforts made Pendleton County a cleaner, better place for all. He will be sorely missed—but never forgotten.
For more information on The Boo Project, to make a donation, or to get involved, please contact:
Tami Vater, Pendleton County Economic & Tourism Development
Office & Cell – (859) 654-4567
Email – tourism@pendletoncountyky.gov
233 Main Street, Falmouth KY 41040
As a background note, Robert “Boo” Singleton tragically passed away on April 7, 2025 due to a medical emergency while performing flood debris cleanup in the backwaters of the Licking River following the devastating April 2025 flood. His passing during this act of service is a reflection of the deep love and dedication he held for his community and its environment.