The festival is a celebration of the Cheat River and its improving water quality. Friends of the Cheat formed in 1994 after a deep mine seal blow out & millions of gallons of highly acidic drainage colored Muddy Creek and the Cheat River bright orange, killing fish for miles downstream. Since that time many water restoration projects have been completed on the lower Cheat and water quality has been steadily improving The Cheat River is long loved by paddlers for its challenging whitewater, & fishermen who are finding larger numbers & varieties of fish species. Our vision of a rail trail along the river will allow hikers, runners, & bicyclists to experience the beauty of the river close-up. The Proceeds from Sponsors, Vendors, and Attendees helps keep our organization running throughout the year. If you want to be a sponsor or vendor, please call Janet at (304) 329-3621