Gators Getting Green: UF Students Trash Pick-Up at Sweetwater Preserve

As I ran through the gorgeous nature trails just south of the University of Florida’s campus, I noticed a large accumulation of trash in and around Sweetwater Branch Creek. Wanting to take action and help beautify the area, I realized I had found the perfect location for Faith and my first National Park Trust Ambassador trip: Gainesville’s own Sweetwater Preserve.

Together with five fellow UF students, we spent the afternoon on November 6th picking up trash and debris from the park. After gloving up and doing a quick debrief, everyone set off down different sections of the preserve to explore and collect what they could. We had a great time hiking the trails, connecting with nature, and chatting with people about what the National Park Trust is all about. At one point, our friend Matthew felt so inspired that he waded into the creek to grab trash stuck along the bank!

All in all, we collected about two full bags of trash and even hauled out an entire traffic cone. Back in the parking lot, we regrouped and reflected on the experience, feeling good about giving back to our environment. Thanks to Brew Dr., we wrapped up the afternoon by sipping on some well-earned kombucha. Faith and I are pleased with how our first trip went and can’t wait for the next ones.