Lifestyle

Texas Adopt-A-Park Programs are Community Favorites

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

You’ve probably seen signs along the highway for the Texas Adopt-A-Highway program. This now international campaign originated in our state in 1985. This incredible program is volunteer-driven, just like its lesser-known partner, the Adopt-A-Park program. Other terms for Adopt-A-Park include Adopt-A-Spot, Adopt-A-Street, and Adopt-A-Creek, but the concept of keeping the community clean is the same.

Texas Adopt-A-Park Programs are Community Favorites

Photo: envato elements

Businesses, groups, and families are all welcome to participate and see their efforts benefit their town. Several programs already exist within the Hill Country. San Antonio’s program has Dog Park Ambassadors to help keep dog parks safe and Trail Watch Volunteers. Austin’s program has 116 adopted parks, including Gustavo “Gus” L. Garcia District Park, Spyglass Trailhead, and the dog-friendly Red Bud Isle, and over 60 parks waiting to be adopted. Smaller programs are active in New Braunfels, Del Rio, Killeen, and Boerne as well!

Texas Adopt-A-Park Programs are Community Favorites

Photo: envato elements

Interested in volunteering for your area while enjoying sunshine and benefiting from exercise? Here are some tips for being a part of the Adoption network of programs offered in Texas.

  • Make communication plans.
  • Ask local sponsors to donate items.
  • Designate supply storage.
  • Put signage in place, with landowner’s permission.
  • Post events to social media.
  • Track the program’s progress and its participants.
  • Take advice from successful programs.

If a state park is closer to you, volunteers are often needed there as well through short-term, long-term, and special event openings. State Park Friends Groups and park hosts are also needed to support state parks and assist visitors with questions, tips, and information. Additionally, education programs such as Buffalo Soldiers, State Park Ambassadors, and Texas Outdoor Family often need people to help. Whatever type of Texas park is nearest to you, it’s likely they could use your help! Consider joining an existing Adopt-A-Park program or creating a new one today.