March 2018.
As NPNA neighbors note several early signs of Spring – flowering trees, daffodils, Mallard groups on the creek – it would seem that some year-round signs, namely the City of Dallas Park rules posted by the City at the tennis courts on Alta Vista and in other locations, are not being observed with care and attention.
These City Codes are designed to protect and preserve the Park and the adjacent greenbelt for the enjoyment of all. “All” includes wildlife, who must depend on us to keep the creek and its waters healthy.
Fines can be assessed for violations:
- Failing to pick up after dogs is subject to a $100 fine. We know the dogs are good boys and gals, so Owners, do your part and let’s keep the banks and the creek clean. This works best on a voluntary basis – no one wants to be the first to get a ticket.
- Another Code rule prohibits dumping. This can be any rubble or trash or other materials. Recently, wood pallets were placed in the creek bed – apparently to make a bike path – without any thought that running bikes up and down the banks would likely result in more erosion. These were soon carried away by the rains, only to become downstream trash that will need to be removed. City of Dallas Stormwater Staff has advised “the only thing we want to see going into the creek is rainwater.”
After the recent sustained rains, neighbors could briefly see the creek water running clear – perhaps a glimpse of what Joe’s Creek could be, if we are vigilant at keeping pollutants and all other types of trash out of it.
Vince Punaro, Creek/Park Leader