JAPHET CREEK’S EXTREME MAKEOVER

Japhet Creek is a tributary of Buffalo Bayou on the north side of the bayou. Its spring-fed waters have been a dumping ground for years. In November 2004, the Japhet Creek Civic Club decided to clean up the creek and restore the habitat. In collaboration with Buffalo Bayou Partnership, the Trust for Public Land, and Keep Houston Beautiful, the civic club has worked with more than 140 volunteers. They have removed 295 bags of trash, 104 tires, and 2,200 pounds of scrap metal.The city of Houston has given up its plan to cover Japhet Creek, and fireflies have been seen on its banks. There will be one more restoration day on Saturday, May 20. Volunteers will help pick up small trash, plant native trees, and broadcast seed balls. Work will begin at 9 am and last until about noon. Volunteers meet at the corner of Emile and 4601 Clinton Dr. For more information, contact Brian Herod at (713) 480-6303 or info@houstonsustainability.net or call Buffalo Bayou Partnership at (713) 752-0314.