Organizers for the 3rd annual Fish Creek Cleanup Challenge are seeking volunteers this weekend to collect discarded cans, glass and plastic bottles, paper and other debris littering the banks of the southeast Arlington creek.

During this year’s cleanup challenge, scheduled between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 30, event organizer Angel Carter said she is hopeful that even with the coronavirus pandemic that hundreds of volunteers will turn out to tackle the litter problem along an 8-mile section of the creek covering both Arlington and Grand Prairie.

 “I know a lot of people are concerned about social distancing and COVID-19. We have miles and miles of room for social distancing and still provide the opportunity for people to volunteer and help others and help the community,” Carter said.

During last year’s event, approximately 750 volunteers cleaned up about 8.5 tons of trash.
Carter, a U.S. Marine veteran and Arlington resident, has been sharing photos on the event Facebook page to raise awareness about the creek’s current conditions and the need for cleanup along the popular walking trail.

“There is still just as much litter getting in the creek even though people have been quarantining and social distancing. Styrofoam cups and containers, plastic bottles and glass. And I’m starting to see gloves and masks,” Carter said.

The cleanup is a family friendly event, Carter said. Much of the trash is lightweight, such as plastic bags, Styrofoam cups and paper. Volunteers are asked to wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, closed toe shoes or waterproof boots and any preferred tools, such as trash grabbers. Event organizers are providing gloves, trash bags, hand sanitizer and a limited number of tools.

“Dress for the weather. Be prepared,” Carter said. “We are trying to provide everything else so we can try to have a fun, safe and productive day.”

Click here to pre-register for the 3rd Annual Fish Creek Cleanup Challenge. On-site registration will be available as well, Carter said.

Volunteers are asked to meet at Cravens Park, 400 Cravens Park Dr., or the Fish Creek Neighborhood Park, 2121 Havenwood Dr.