A community-wide cleanup event focused on the Mill Creek Watershed is set for Saturday, May 9, 2026, in Bellville. The event is being organized by the Mill Creek Watershed Partnership in collaboration with local and state partners.
The cleanup will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Mill Creek at FM 2429 in Bellville. Volunteers will meet at the launch site before being assigned to additional bridge locations across the creek as needed. The effort will focus on removing litter and debris, including tires, to help improve local water quality.
The event is free and open to the public, but participants are required to register in advance at millcreek.tamu.edu. Water and cleanup supplies will be provided, including gloves, safety vests, trash bags, and grabbers. Volunteers are encouraged to wear long pants, closed-toe shoes, and sun protection.
The cleanup is being held in partnership with the Gideon Lincecum Chapter of the Texas Master Naturalists and the Trash Free Gulf Campaign, expanding the reach of the effort to protect local waterways.
The Mill Creek Watershed Partnership was formed in 2016 in response to elevated bacteria levels in the creek. Since then, the group has worked to improve water quality through education, outreach, and community involvement.
Funding for this effort is provided through a federal Clean Water Act Section 319(h) Nonpoint Source Grant administered by the Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service serves as an equal opportunity employer and program provider.
This cleanup effort is part of an ongoing initiative to reduce pollution and protect natural resources in the Mill Creek Watershed. Community members interested in making a direct, hands-on impact are encouraged to participate.
Hello Austin County was able to visit with Annalee Epps and discuss the Mill Creek Watershed. You can see the video HERE.
