More than 250 volunteers gathered along Creekside Creek on Saturday for the annual cleanup, setting a new record for participation in the five-year event. Organized by the Creekside Environmental Coalition, the effort focused on removing litter, invasive plants, and debris from a three-mile stretch of the waterway. Participants included families, students, and local business employees who worked from 8 a.m. to noon under clear skies.

Community Participation Surges

Event coordinators reported collecting 1,800 pounds of trash, including plastic bottles, tires, and discarded fishing gear. The previous record of 180 volunteers was surpassed early in the morning as additional groups arrived. Local schools contributed 80 students who received community service credit. Organizers credited increased social media promotion and partnerships with nearby businesses for the higher numbers. Safety briefings were held at three stations along the creek, and all participants received gloves, bags, and water. No injuries were reported during the event.

Resident Maria Lopez, who brought her two children, said the activity provided a practical way to teach environmental responsibility. Business owner Tom Rivera supplied refreshments and noted that cleaner waterways benefit local tourism. Data collected during the cleanup will be shared with county officials to track long-term water quality improvements.

Environmental Impact and Next Steps

Coalition leaders stated that regular cleanups have reduced visible pollution by 40 percent since the program began. The collected materials were sorted for recycling where possible, with the remainder taken to a local landfill. Future events are planned for spring and fall, with goals to expand the cleaned area and involve more corporate sponsors. Grant applications have been submitted to fund additional equipment such as kayaks for hard-to-reach sections. Residents interested in volunteering can register through the coalition website. The success of this event demonstrates strong community commitment to maintaining Creekside Creek as a vital local resource.