By DANIEL MOCTEZUMA
The Belton Journal
A handful of volunteers gathered early on Saturday, October 26, at Miller Springs Nature Center in Belton to clear trails and plant wildflower seeds, supporting regular maintenance and adding seasonal blooms. The Belton Parks and Recreation department, which organized the event, provided gloves, trash bags, clippers, and seed mixes for all participants.
Sharisse Bennett, the events and marketing coordinator, outlined the day’s activities:
“We’re clearing out trash and debris from the trails and spreading wildflower seeds in open areas.”
Park superintendent Joe Dier shared that despite Miller Springs Nature Center’s scenic trails and accessible location, many in the community still aren’t aware of it.
“For as big as Miller Springs is, people still don’t know it’s here,” Dier said. Events like these, he explained, are a way to draw more attention to the park and encourage locals to explore it.
Dier also explained that the wildflower seeds, which had been mixed with sand for easier spreading, will only bloom when conditions are just right.
“Each year we plant and see where they come up naturally,” he said, noting that regular cleanup days like this help keep the park an inviting space. Volunteers were encouraged to pick up more seeds if they finished their initial batch, allowing them to cover more ground and add to the wildflower spread throughout the park.
Volunteers included both regulars and newcomers who joined on the spot. Koraly Adams, accompanied by her dog Rocky, initially came for a hike with her friend Luis Beliz but decided to join the cleanup.
“We saw what was happening and decided to pitch in,” Adams said. “It’s a good way to spend time outdoors.”
Dier reminded volunteers that these efforts are part of an ongoing project, with another cleanup scheduled for April. Each participant received wildflower seeds donated by Kent and Monica Claypool and Lauren, in memory of Casey Glen Claypool, a dedicated supporter of Miller Springs Nature Center.
