This AVAC system (automated vacuum assisted collection) is a network of large pipes with many collection points throughout the park. A computer cycles a vacuum suction at the various collection points to wisk any disposed trash at speeds of sixty miles an hour to a main collection point behind the park. Pretty impressive, eh? If they had put this system on the island, many problems would occur from pipe clearance under the sternwheeler guide-track in the river to inaccessability to the pipes for maintenance. Thats just for starters! So, with all the variables in mind, it was decided that the AVAC would remain ashore.

An AVAC collection point

There is only one viable alternative to removing trash off the island and yes, you guessed it, by boat. Is there any special training needed for a custodian to do this task? Yes, but it is quite simple.

First, you must know how to swim. Surprisingly enough, not everyone knows how to swim, so incase you should be struck by a branch from an overhanging tree or bridge structure and go into the river, you will know how to tread water. Even with the mandatory life-jacket, experienced swimmers are a must. Finally and obviously, you must know how to drive a boat. If you can operate a fifteen foot aluminum john-boat with a five speed outboard motor and swim, "you da man!"

If you haven't visited TSI, it is an attraction that has two sets of restrooms and a snack bar complete with tables and chairs, called Aunt Polly's (now known as Aunt Polly's Dockside Inn) and numerous "woodsy" trails and caves for exploring. Since, there is very little lighting on the island, it closes at dusk. Sunset is the signal for the custodian to fetch the boat and begin the laborious task of boating the trash off the island.

There is very little preperation involved in doing this. First, all island trash is pulled and replaced with fresh bags. Next, you gather your life-jacket and board the raft with the guests to take a quick trip to the mainland. You could imagine the looks I got from the guests when they realized I was carrying a life-jacket. I once had a guest comment, "I guess if we sink, you'll be the one to make it." I assumed he was joking and smiled.

Once ashore, you stroll back behind Thundermountain Railroad attraction where a small dock used by horticulture, sits. Here, you launch your boat into the Rivers of America "spur" and proceed to the open river ahead. There are traffic rules on the river and you must be mindful of them at all times! First and foremost, never go up against the sternwheeler. This river behemoth maintains first dibs on the river. Even the Tom Sawyer rafts hold for its passing, so you must do the same.

Second, never pass in front of the rafts. This is "bad show" and would cause confusion not to mention a collision. Last of all, no "hot-dogging" to and from your destination. A five speed outboard motor on such a light craft can be an immense temptation to go wild, but it is better to stay dry and out of trouble.

Once the sternwheeler passes the spur, you proceed to the suspension bridge. I see this is the only real obstacle besides the other present river craft. I had found that once the kids on the island see you approaching to pass under the bridge, they rush on and begin jumping up and down on the bridge. They never were able to hit me, but had I not ducked each time I passed, I would have one serious headache! The rest of the trip is smooth sailing with a few quick maneuvers to dock at Aunt Polly's. After a few more strange looks from the guests, you begin loading your boat. After all the bags are loaded, you gingerly step down into the boat and begin your return trip to the river "spur". Only inches above water and the motor protesting, you squeeze under the suspension bridge which is luckily deserted now after the dusk closing of the island.

The trip ends at a dumpster on the opposite side of the dock on the spur. Here, you unload, return to the dock, hose and drain the boat, and head for the office for a job well done! Its a grueling task, especially in the summer months with the humidity rising up out of the river, but someone has to do it. I know that kid whitewashing the fence wouldn't volunteer.

Thanks to Hidden Mickeys for the AVAC photo used on this page! Be sure to check the links page to visit this website.

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