Founder Richard Hitchcox at the prize table preparing to draw names for the much-loved raffle. As of March 16, the organization has collected 4,740 pounds of trash in 2025. Photo Courtesy/Trina Johnson
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the PRESS
More than just a cleanup, the upcoming gathering at the “end of the road” on June 21 promises to be a powerful demonstration of community, conservation, and connection. Organized by Richard Hitchcox and the RGV Fishing Area and Waterway Cleanups group, this event offers a chance for participants to unite for a common cause — keeping the Rio Grande Valley’s waterways clean.
Hitchcox, who founded the group in 2018, was inspired by the trash he encountered while fishing with his son Paul. “He was my fishing buddy,” Hitchcox recalled. “Every place I tried to take him fishing was dirty with trash. So I decided to try to do something about that.” His initiative, which began as a small effort, has now evolved into a grassroots movement with a growing number of participants.
The mission is clear: protecting Rio Grande Valley waterways. “Trash in the canals and resacas flows into the Arroyo Colorado River, which flows into the Rio Grande and eventually the Gulf,” Hitchcox explained. “Cleaning trash from any local waterway prevents it from ending up in the Laguna Madre.”
The June 21 cleanup at the “end of the road” is another vital step in the group’s ongoing commitment to improving the region’s waterways. Having organized cleanups across the area — including Gayman’s Bridge and other locations — the group is focused on maintaining and protecting the environmental health of the Rio Grande Valley’s diverse ecosystems. Participants of all ages are encouraged to join, as the event continues to reflect the group’s mission to bring together the local community.
Carolyn Dunkin, a longtime supporter, reflected on the rewarding nature of these events: “People from all walks of life participate, and all ages. After putting in the work and loading up the dumpster, Mr. Hitchcox always has plenty of donors who support him, providing drinks, snacks, and sandwiches for the volunteers.”
The prize drawing is a highlight for many participants. “Upon arrival, every participant signs in and gets a ticket,” said Dunkin. “At the end of the event, if your ticket is drawn, you get a prize donated by sponsors — ranging from fishing trips to gift certificates, a night on the island, and more. It’s a fun time!”
Saturday’s prize table at the last event reflected this generous spirit, with donations from local businesses and individuals fueling a giveaway that included charter fishing trips, dolphin cruises, custom fishing rods, and gift cards.
Sylvia Escamilla, another volunteer, emphasized the importance of awareness: “Events like this cleanup raise awareness of the negative impacts of trash—not only the unsightliness of it, but how it can affect fish, wildlife, and the environment.”
While local fishermen are often responsible stewards of the environment, Hitchcox noted that much of the trash they collect is washed up from other areas. “We are more interested in being part of the solution than pointing fingers,” he said.
The upcoming cleanup offers another opportunity for everyone, even those who may be new to the cause, to make a difference. Joshua Herman, a recent participant, stumbled upon the group during a sightseeing trip and joined in without hesitation.
It’s this openness and community-driven spirit that define the group’s work.
Though not a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the group is incorporated as a Texas nonprofit corporation and operates on a shoestring budget. Hitchcox credits the group’s growth to the support of generous sponsors who provide cleanup supplies, snacks, drinks, and prizes.
Thanks to this continued support, the RGV Fishing Area and Waterway Cleanups will continue to protect local waterways and inspire community action—one trash bag (and prize ticket) at a time. The June 21 cleanup at the “end of the road” offers a chance for everyone to come together and make a lasting impact on the Rio Grande Valley.
For more information, to donate prizes, or to volunteer, contact Richard Hitchcox at 956-371-7146.
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