Funding in part from North Texas Community Foundation has played a crucial role in supporting Upper Trinity Regional Water District’s efforts to enhance water quality education and outreach in the Lewisville, Texas area. With the recent purchase of a stream erosion trailer, Upper Trinity is able to provide hands-on demonstrations to educate the community on the importance of proper watershed management and its impact on local water supply reservoirs.
The stream erosion trailer, partially funded by the Anita Berry Martin Memorial Fund at North Texas Community Foundation, serves as a valuable tool in showcasing how changes in stream hydrology can lead to erosion and how natural vegetation can help mitigate these effects. By demonstrating the consequences of building too close to streams and the benefits of preserving natural habitats, Upper Trinity aims to raise awareness about the critical role of watershed protection in maintaining water quality.
“We’re grateful for the generous donation from the North Texas Community Foundation to help with the purchase of the stream erosion trailer,” said Larry N. Patterson, Executive Director of Upper Trinity. “Having our own stream trailer will enhance Upper Trinity’s outreach program to schools, homeschool groups, and others about the importance of protecting our watersheds.”
The stream erosion trailer will be utilized as a hands-on demonstration station during tours of the Taylor Water Treatment Plant and Nancy Tam Water Wise Demonstration Garden in Lewisville. Additionally, Upper Trinity staff will be able to bring the trailer and other educational demonstrations to schools, civic groups, and other locations within their service area. Teachers and group leaders interested in scheduling a tour or stream trailer demonstration can contact Blake Alldredge at balldredge@utrwd.com.
In addition to the stream erosion trailer, Upper Trinity offers a range of educational resources for free, including TEKS-aligned lesson plans and a Story Map with videos and links to lesson plans and resources from other organizations. These resources can be accessed on Upper Trinity’s website at https://utrwd.com/resources/teacher-resources/.
Established by the Texas Legislature in 1989, Upper Trinity Regional Water District serves cities and utilities in the Denton County area by developing regional plans for water services and providing water and wastewater services on a wholesale basis. The district is committed to public education on water conservation and quality protection, offering programs on drought-tolerant landscape techniques, efficient water use, and more.
For more information about Upper Trinity’s educational initiatives, contact Jason Pierce, Manager of Government Affairs & Communications at 972-219-1228.
North Texas Community Foundation, a key partner in supporting community initiatives, drives meaningful change through charitable investment. With a focus on providing tax-efficient strategies for donors to support causes they care about, the Foundation plays a vital role in shaping the future of North Texas for good. With $513 million in assets and grants totaling approximately $39 million in 2023, North Texas Community Foundation is dedicated to making a positive impact in the region.
To learn more about North Texas Community Foundation and its charitable work, visit their website at https://northtexascf.org/. Through partnerships with organizations like Upper Trinity Regional Water District, the Foundation continues to make a difference in the community by supporting initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and community well-being.