We believe that a clean river is a thriving river. From its headwaters through every winding mile, the Brazos is a vital part of Texas heritage, wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation. Our mission is to protect this powerful waterway by organizing river cleanups, raising awareness, and fostering environmental stewardship.
What started as a grassroots effort has grown into a passionate movement to restore and maintain the health of the river we love. Whether you’re a paddler, landowner, conservationist, or just someone who loves nature, there’s a place for you in this work.
Our Goals:
Remove litter and debris from the river and its banks
Educate the public about the importance of clean waterways
Collaborate with local landowners, paddlers, and volunteers
Protect the scenic, cultural, and ecological value of the Upper Brazos
Join us in protecting the source—because what starts here flows everywhere.
Protecting the Beauty of the
Upper Brazos
In November 1957, Texas native and Marine Corps veteran John Graves set out on a 170-mile canoe trip down the Brazos River with his dachshund, “Passenger,” to bid farewell to a river he cherished. Blending personal reflection with history, nature, and philosophy, his account was initially rejected by Sports Illustrated but later published in 1960 as Goodbye to a River, his most acclaimed work. The John Graves Scenic Riverway—stretching from Possum Kingdom Lake to near Lake Granbury—was named in his honor. Created by Senate Bill 1354 in 2005, the designation both commemorates Graves and ensures water quality through a partnership of state agencies.
John Graves
"When we save a river, we save a major part of an ecosystem, and we save ourselves as well because of our dependence—physical, economic, spiritual—on the water and its community of life."
— Tim Palmer, river conservationist and author
Step In. Clean Up.
Need Any Help?
Contact Us: brazoscleanupproject@gmail.com