Nearly a month after Winter Storm Mara left many Pflugerville and Hutto residents without power in early February, both cities are still working to collect tree debris from private residences and public properties—a process that officials said could still take several months.

As of Feb. 28, city officials estimate around 65,000 cubic yards of debris had been collected across properties in both cities. Pflugerville accounts for about 62,000.

Pflugerville Public Works Director Evan Groeschel said in the days following the storm, clearing debris from roads and other public right of ways was the city’s first priority.

However, he said clearing brush from private residences has since become the city’s main task.

Pflugerville and Hutto are each employing a variety of tactics for brush cleanup, including establishing drop-off zones, partnering with contractors and waste providers, and picking up brush directly from residents’ curbs.


In Hutto, City Manager James Earp said the Hutto Resource Center, a local nonprofit, has also mounted a volunteer effort to help with cleanup.

“A number of folks have decided to volunteer either individually or as groups. ... And then folks who need help with their debris removal get signed up [with the HRC],” Earp said.

Hutto Communications Director Allison Strupeck said cleanup efforts in Hutto will likely continue through March and possibly April. Pflugerville officials anticipate a similar timeline.

“Our public works folks have committed to driving every single road in this town, [but] it’s going to take a time to get through all the city,” Earp said.