By Heather Lusk
Stream cleanups have occurred in the past, but this year the street and stormwater department is taking it to a new level. Zionsville Creekfest, a morning full of activities around Eagle Creek, will launch Aug. 29 with an ultimate goal of clearing trash from the area.
Groups wanting to volunteer will meet at Elm Street Green and then disperse to assigned areas up and down Eagle Creek as far as Turkey Foot Park. Because there is limited parking nearby, volunteers are encouraged to register beforehand and either walk or bike.
According to Gavin Merriman, stormwater program manager for the Town of Zionsville, the idea began with resident Tom Settle, who noticed a lot of debris in Eagle Creek.
“We took that and ran with it,” Merriman said.
Food and refreshments from Sub 16 and Marsh will be provided to volunteers with other activities planned all morning. Wildcat Creek Outfitters will demonstrate kayaks, the Zion Nature Center will help kids find critters in the area and both the Indianapolis Art Center and Department of Natural Resources will provide activities.
In 2013 the town generated interest in a first attempt at Creekfest and collected 2,600 pounds of miscellaneous debris.
“From a trash standpoint, Eagle Creek’s not excessively urbanized,” said Merriman, citing the lack of vehicles or large pieces of trash that are unlikely to be found in the waterway.
Last year a second annual spring cleanup was planned but high water forced a cancellation. That also provided an opportunity to create something that was more of a community celebration, according to Merriman, offering “recreation, education and stewardship.”
Merriman said he hopes that this ultimately will become an annual event.
“We hope that in the future this will grow,” he said. “Whether they’re businesses or residents, we hope they get out and play in the creek and have some fun.”
