On February 1, 2025, Austin Branch volunteers cleaned up trash along local creeks, aiming to protect the ecosystem that supports wildlife. Trash pollution poses a severe threat to the creek ecosystems. Items like plastic bottles, drink cans, and batteries can leach toxic chemicals into the water, compromising water quality and harming aquatic life. Additionally, wildlife often mistakes plastic, foam, and glass for food, leading to internal blockages, poisoning, or fatal injuries. Other debris, such as plastic bags, fishing lines, and food packaging, can entangle and trap animals, resulting in injury or drowning.
During the cleanup effort, volunteers collected and properly disposed of waste, preventing further contamination and reducing hazards for local wildlife. By removing trash from these natural waterways, we help maintain a cleaner, safer environment for all species that depend on the creek for survival, including fish, turtles, birds, and endangered species such as the Springs Salamander and the Golden-cheeked Warbler. Volunteers: Michael Qu (4 hours), Liana Cao (4 hours), Joy Yang (4 hours).
