It's time for the 6th Annual Fish Creek Cleanup Challenge, and this year, the call to arms is louder than ever. Organizers are rallying troops to beat back the blight of trash along an 8-mile stretch of southeast Arlington's Fish Creek. With hopes of mobilizing a small army of volunteers, the cleanup kicks off bright and early on a cold January morning, the 27th, between 8 a.m. and noon.
Despite past cleanups, Fish Creek's banks are still bogged down by refuse. Angel Carter spearheads the effort, emphasizing the ongoing saga against litter. "People are still littering. There’s still trash in the trees and the tree roots in the creek. If you want to be part of the solution, we invite you out to Cravens Park on Saturday, Jan. 27. We are coming together to clean the creek," Carter stated, hoping hundreds will join the fray just as they did in previous years, according to the City of Arlington, Texas.
Since the inaugural challenge, 2,626 volunteers have valiantly vanquished over 65,800 pounds of trash. Their commitment showcases community spirit at its finest. The organizers offer a rallying point for those in Arlington at Cravens Park, located at 400 Cravens Park Drive. Grand Prairie volunteers are to assemble at the playground across from 4355 Allegro Lane. Both locations will open the day with an 8 a.m. ceremony and essential safety briefing.
The task at hand isn't one for the faint-hearted, but it's a family affair with no minimum age required. Volunteers will brave chill winds to fish out mostly lightweight litter, like plastic bags and paper products, from Fish Creek's grips. Event details suggest dressing in layers, and sporting closed-toe shoes, and it's better if waterproof - for those who dare to wade into the creek itself. "It is always cold, so we suggest volunteers dress in layers. Closed toe shoes are required and rain boots or waterproof shoes are recommended for those who want to get in the creek," Carter said. More than just effort, the event is a concerted push towards a pristine creek and community unity, as per the City of Arlington, Texas.
Behind every great conquest are powerful allies, and the Fish Creek cleanup is no exception. The Mission Continues, USAA, St. Andrews UMC, Texas Veterans Network, Webb Masonic Lodge, and Republic Services join the cities of Arlington and Grand Prairie among the cleanup's staunch supporters. These organizations are providing gloves, trash bags, and a smattering of tools but encourage participants to come equipped.
