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In recent years, a concerted effort has been made to clean up the area along the Cedar River, across from The Old Mill, into one of Austin’s nicest recreational areas.

It has become a destination for those of us in town who like to get out and enjoy an outdoor recreational adventure. Its enhanced fishing opportunities, provided another place for kayakers to access the Cedar below the dam, and has even become a platform for education in the form of the annual visit by the Canoemobile, which takes area fourth-grade students for trips up and down the river.

These opportunities wouldn’t be possible without the diligent work by local groups in combination with state efforts recognizing what this area has to offer, but unfortunately, like so many prime outdoor hotspots, there are always a few that leave their marks and this particular spot is no different.

It’s not uncommon to visit the spot on any given day and see the remains of the human impact left behind. Cans and bottles and other assorted and miscellaneous items can be found strewn about, oftentimes in view of a garbage can.

There’s even been boat batteries left behind, which can’t even be disposed of through normal garbage disposal.

Consider what this area used to be after the golf holes and tees were moved. It was little more than a place for excess water to flow during flood events, while most of the time, aside from roads that allow access to the area, the place was left to the grass.

But there were those that saw potential in the place and today, it’s an amazing spot to launch a river excursion or cast some lines, not to mention the efforts made to clean the river itself.

It’s a picturesque stop for an afternoon or morning that has something taken away from it when you find the garbage left behind by the few selfish individuals who can’t take the time to think outside of their own individual spheres.

It takes just a couple of minutes to clean up your spot, and we urge that you take those moments to ensure that others who follow can enjoy that spot.

At the same time, we want to also take the opportunity to remind people that not all spots along the river are public, something that should be readily obvious with just a little effort to check.

A little observation is enough to tell a person that the river often runs along private land. Stick to the public opportunities, of which there are plenty, because private landowners shouldn’t have to worry about strangers setting up shop on their land to fish.

If by chance there is some confusion, don’t argue. Just leave if the landowner requires you to. Acknowledge the mistake and move on.

Fishing is a great pastime and a lot of fun, but it comes with a certain amount of responsibility on the angler’s part. Be responsible. Be considerate.