The Colorado River Alliance and Travis County Parks are organizing a volunteer event aimed at cleaning up parks and the Texas Colorado River. Scheduled for April 20, 2024, the event is expected to bring together over 100 volunteers and community leaders across seven parks in Eastern Travis County.
Commissioner Gomez of Precinct 4 encourages participation, stating, "It is essential that we keep our waterways clear, so we can continue to enjoy our beautiful parks, rivers, and creeks." Commissioner Shea of Precinct 2 emphasizes the importance of clean waterways as a source of drinking water for downstream communities.
Inspired by the Lake Travis Cleanup, this initiative aims to raise awareness about litter's impact on parks and creeks. Adrienne Longenecker, Executive Director of Colorado River Alliance, highlights the event's role in protecting open spaces that support river communities: “This event is an opportunity to pick-up litter and protect vital open space that supports the entire River and downstream communities.”
The Texas Colorado River provides drinking water for 1.5 million people in Central Texas. The cleanup will take place across several locations including East Austin, Pflugerville, Manor, Del Valle, and Webberville. Volunteers must pre-register at www.coloradoriver.org/events.
The mission of both organizations involved focuses on sustainability and education about natural resources. The Colorado River Alliance was founded in 1994 with a commitment to protecting the river through educational programs reaching thousands annually. Similarly, Travis County Parks aim to offer recreational opportunities while conserving natural resources.