The Angelina and Neches River Authority (ANRA) held its Clean Rivers Program Steering Committee Meeting on August 15, 2023, focusing on water quality issues and community engagement initiatives. The meeting featured presentations from key personnel, including Kimberly Wagner, the Executive Manager of Communications, who shared updates on outreach efforts and educational programs aimed at improving public awareness of water quality.

Wagner emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting a growing interest in water quality issues despite the concerning data reflected in their monitoring maps. She highlighted recent improvements to ANRA's website and social media presence, which have enhanced their ability to communicate with the public. Wagner introduced a new social media series titled "Stranger Things Found in Our Waterways," showcasing unusual items discovered during water sampling, which has sparked interest and engagement among local communities.

The meeting also covered the successful distribution of approximately 6,000 "stash your trash" litter bags, designed to encourage responsible waste disposal during outdoor activities. Wagner reported that these bags have been well-received and are being used effectively, contributing to cleaner waterways. Additionally, she mentioned the launch of a documentary titled "Downstream," created by a graduate student, which focuses on water quality and litter issues in East Texas.

Wagner discussed ongoing educational initiatives, including the development of new coloring and activity books for school-aged children, set to be released in early 2024. She also highlighted the Texas Stream Team program, which trains volunteers to monitor water quality, noting that interest in training sessions has been high, with many sessions fully booked.

The meeting concluded with a preview of upcoming events, including a "Battle of the Banks" cleanup competition between Nacogdoches and Angelina counties, and the revival of the Nature's River Rendezvous, a paddling event aimed at promoting water quality awareness. Wagner expressed optimism about the future of these initiatives and the continued collaboration with community partners to enhance water quality in the region.