October 2016.

Early October temperatures in the 90s – not State Fair or Football weather; but the red leaves of a flame sumac sapling on the creek bank hint that fall is approaching. This means leaves coming down, and a good time to revisit the best practices for keeping leaves and other trash out of the storm drains, and most important out of the creek. 

Noting the abundance of plastic bottles, bags, and other debris in the creek and along the greenbelt suggests that there’s much room for improvement in the control of trash and recyclables.  While most of these items likely are swept into storm drains outside of our neighborhood, we can take a moment to ensure that our own trash and recycle bins are not the source.  

And try to use organic products when needing to use pesticides and other chemicals on your lawns. Rain and irrigation systems will transfer these contaminants into our creek water. Water released from your pools with a high ph. will also pollute the creek water.

Every substance that flows or is carried into Joe’s Creek impacts the water quality of the Trinity River.

Footnote: The actions of those who continue to spray graffiti on the retaining wall near Hockaday, and those who left cut branches in the creek bed at either end of the retaining wall (could be the same person(s)? contrast sharply with those of the dedicated NPNA volunteers who work to keep the creek a natural area, and an asset to the neighborhood.

Vince Punaro, NPNA Creek Leader

August 2016.
Several years ago, a longtime NPNA resident asked several neighbors the question: “What is Joe’s Creek good for?”

A common thread in the answers led to a focus for NPNA, working to preserve the natural characteristics of the creek and its greenbelt environment. NPNA volunteers have responded with energy and enthusiasm, working in concert with Dallas Parks Department in numerous creek cleaning and preservation events.   

Long before these group efforts, individuals have labored quietly and individually, picking up trash on daily walks, watching for any conditions or contaminants that threaten the creek and the quality of the water.

Rebecca Bergstresser exemplifies this tradition, and also lent her considerable powers of observation, organization, and enthusiasm as a NPNA Creek Leader in planning and leading a number of the group efforts. We can continue to be inspired by her example in caring for the creek on a daily basis. For daily attention is a great tool in safeguarding the creek from the ordinary and extraordinary events that can quickly and adversely affect the quality of the water and the welfare of the wildlife. 

So anytime that you’re out walking along the creek or greenbelt, think of our exemplary volunteers, and don’t hesitate to pick up debris — there are several trash receptacles along the way — and importantly, if you do see something out of the norm, such as an obvious pollutant or contaminant, or deliberately placed rubble or trash, let us know at creek@npna.org, so that together with the City we can best keep Joe’s Creek clear and clean. 

While you’re at it, perhaps you’ll catch a sight of the red-tail hawk, an egret, or even the yellow crowned night heron. Thanks Rebecca, for reminding us what the creek can be, and for inspiring us to keep working toward that realization. 

Vince Punaro, Creek Event Leader