Pictured: Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. and Cameron County Park Director Joe Vega visit with a member of the Native Plant Society of Texas at Saturday’s event.
By TRINA “INDI” JOHNSON
Special to the PRESS
On Saturday, April 26, Isla Blanca Park — recently nominated as Texas’s best beach by USA Today for the second year in a row — became the center of a monumental event for coastal preservation. More than 500 people attended the 2025 Coastal Roundup, a major cleanup organized by the Texas General Land Office (GLO), showcasing a shared commitment to protecting Texas beaches for generations to come. Cameron County was honored to host this year’s event, which rotates among various locations along the Texas coast.
Joe Vega, Parks Director for Cameron County, captured the essence of the event during his opening speech: “We want to be sure that we improve public beach access for this generation and for many generations to come.” His words, setting the tone for the day, highlighted the shared responsibility of protecting and maintaining Texas coastlines for future generations.
Sofia C. Benavides, County Commissioner for Precinct 1, was also in attendance and expressed the county’s gratitude for state organizations coming to the area to help educate Cameron County on ways to better care for its coastline.
Cameron County Judge Eddie Treviño Jr. echoed the sentiment, recognizing the significant partnership between local authorities and the GLO. “They have been incredible partners with Cameron County in making sure that we do everything possible to protect and care for our Texas coastline,” he stated during the early morning speech at Saturday’s event.
Under the North Pavilion at Isla Blanca Park, families enjoyed a variety of hands-on activities, with more than 30 organizations participating. Children explored touch tanks, discovering marine life up close, while the lively atmosphere was enhanced by music, face painting, and more.
The Texas State Aquarium’s animal rescue ambulance was a highlight, giving many children the chance to learn about wildlife rescue firsthand, and the GLO’s Oil Spill Response Unit showcased equipment used in disaster response. The Texas Forest Service’s bulldozer offered a look into land preservation efforts. Cameron County featured their MobiChair, demonstrating the many ways they ensure everyone, regardless of mobility challenges, can enjoy the beach.
Other highlights included a dog-like robot from Texas A&M-Kingsville’s Environmental Engineering Department that roamed the event, delighting children and adults alike while demonstrating its potential use in emergency response. Local groups, including the ever-popular Sea Turtle Inc. and the Native Plant Society of Texas, shared their knowledge on coastal conservation needs and best
practices.
The day ended with attendees reflecting on the successful collaboration that made the event possible and recognizing the importance of caring for and preserving Texas coastlines