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Creek Clean Ups Make a Big Impact Despite Challenging Conditions

This year's creek cleanup season came with an extra challenge: historic rainfall and unusually high water levels brought on by a "Super El Niño" year. Even so, NICHES Land Trust volunteers and partners found ideal windows to safely get on the water and make a lasting difference for our local waterways.

 Our cleanup season began on August 7, when volunteers from Tipmont REMC helped remove trash along Wildcat Creek between Wildcat Creek Park and the NICHES Peters Mill Access Site. Their hard work set the tone for a successful season of stewardship and community engagement. Their efforts helped improve some of the most frequently visited access points, creating a cleaner and more welcoming experience for everyone who enjoys the creek.

The season concluded on August 28 with a dedicated team of volunteers from Caterpillar, who focused on the stretch of Wildcat Creek between the NICHES Mi-So-Lah Access Site and Wildcat Creek Park. Together, they tackled accumulated debris and helped restore the natural beauty of this popular waterway corridor.

Across all cleanups, volunteers removed tires, over half a ton of trash, and plenty of unexpected oddities. While the items varied, they all had one thing in common: they didn't belong in the creek.

These cleanups do more than improve the appearance of our waterways. Removing trash helps protect water quality, reduces hazards for wildlife, and creates safer, more enjoyable places for people to paddle, fish, and explore. Every bag of trash removed represents a meaningful investment in the health of our local ecosystems.

NICHES Land Trust is deeply grateful to every volunteer who donated their time and energy this season. We extend special thanks to our partners at Tipmont REMC and Caterpillar, as well as the community members who joined us in caring for our shared natural resources.

This work was made possible through generous support from Arconic, Caterpillar, and American Water Charitable Foundation. Their investment in environmental stewardship helps ensure that programs like the annual Creek Clean Up can continue making a positive impact across northern Indiana.

Together, we're keeping our creeks cleaner, healthier, and more vibrant for wildlife and future generations.