ULM’s Bayou Desiard is more than a picturesque sight—it is a place where you will find students enjoying kayaking, relaxing or another one of the outside activities available on campus.
On Sept. 13, 2025, dozens of volunteers gathered for the Water Sweep from 9 to 11 a.m. The event, hosted by Keep ULM Beautiful and Ouachita Green, aimed to protect a university landmark. Participants cleared litter and debris from the bayou and surrounding campus areas.
The Water Sweep began as a small cleanup effort with Ouachita Green but has since grown into a well-recognized tradition among ULM students. Though Ouachita Green expanded through affiliates across Louisiana, its mission remained the same: promoting sustainability and addressing environmental issues
“The bayou is such a part of who we are, and this event maintains it while building pride for our campus, city, and parish,” Keep ULM Beautiful Affiliate Coordinator Andrew Hardee said.
Volunteers and RSOs representatives gathered at the Library Overhang near Scott Plaza, where they received gloves, trash bags and grabbers. Two of the volunteers even put on hip waders to clean along the bayou’s banks.
For two hours, groups spread out across campus and along Bayou Desiard, working together to collect litter, plastic bottles and paper discards. Afterward, participants convened at the University Suites to dispose of the collected trash and received T-shirts in recognition of their efforts. Looking at the participants, Hardee reflected on the broader impact of their efforts.
“If this cleanup inspires someone to pick up trash when they see it, recycle more often, or pay more attention to litter, then we are creating a ripple effect that will last beyond the cleanup itself.”
Among the student volunteers was sophomore social work major Delanie Carty, who returned after participating last year.
“I decided to participate again because I understand the importance of taking care of our campus and the bayou that runs through it,” she said. Carty added that the event allows students to serve others, find friendships and connect service to their ULM experience.
Both organizers and volunteers agree that every piece of litter removed signifies more than just a cleaner bayou. It demonstrates shared responsibility and a commitment to long-term environmental stewardship. Protecting our natural resources and waterways is a collective duty, ensuring they continue to serve and inspire future generations.
