Brush cleanup efforts continue in Brushy Creek MUD

Residents of the Brushy Creek Municipal Utility District will have until April 9 to drop off collected brush.

The MUD's recently purchased wood chipper will be available for residents to dispose of collected brush at the Brushy Creek Community Center's west side greenbelt Sunday-Tuesday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m., according to the district. Residents must have a current water bill or valid ID, and only unbound debris smaller than 10 feet long and 17 inches in diameter may be dropped off. Residents must also unload their own brush.

Eric Whaley, a BCMUD community engagement specialist, said the district has also purchased a burn box to assist with this and future cleanup efforts.

Additionally, a group a volunteers spearheaded by BCMUD Board Member Kim Filiatrault known as the Good Neighbors of Brushy Creek is working to help residents who cannot clear their own brush. Filiatrault said the effort is heavily dependent on volunteers, and that his organization is actively seeking additional hands to help move brush in the community.

"If we don't get some more interest in getting help, then I can't see it surviving," Filiatrault said.

In the BCMUD, it is incumbent upon homeowners to find their own solution for brush pickup, Filiatrault said. His volunteer effort, the Good Neighbors, was created in response to hearing calls for assistance in cleaning up after the winter storm. With a few volunteers and rented trailers, Filiatrault said the Good Neighbors have helped remove around 45 loads from residential property in the district.

Those interested in helping with the volunteer effort can learn more at www.goodneighborsofbrushycreek.org. Filiatrault said the best volunteers are those who are willing and have a few hours to help remove brush.