Garland officials have apologized for clearing portions of Spring Creek Forest Preserve without notifying stakeholders while accessing aging sewer infrastructure.
In a statement published on the city’s website, officials said, “The City of Garland would like to extend a sincere apology following the clearing activity at Spring Creek Forest Preserve. … While the clearing was intentional to access, inspect and maintain a 55-year-old key sewer trunk line, the City’s approach did not live up to its values of stewardship, transparency and collaboration.”
The city acknowledged it failed to coordinate with the preservation society or Dallas County before contractors cut through protected forest areas in June.
“We did not notify the Preservation Society. We did not coordinate with Dallas County, who’s one of the property owners. And for that, I want to apologize on behalf of myself and our staff,” City Manager Jud Rex told the council.
The Preserve, established through partnerships in the 1980s, is situated atop two sewer lines that serve 40,000 residents.
Problems began after the May 2024 storms flooded creeks and stressed infrastructure. City crews discovered stormwater infiltrating the sanitary sewer system, threatening to overflow the Rowlett Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant.
In March 2025, a resident reported creek water pouring into a damaged manhole near Campbell Road. Staff determined they needed access to 55 manholes along Spring Creek. Some hadn’t been inspected in decades.
Dense vegetation and steep terrain required equipment up to 40 feet long and 12 feet wide. Starting June 16, contractors cleared pathways near Halff and Fred E. Harris Parks.
Workers removed forest floor vegetation and damaged natural trails. Neither city staff nor contractors were aware of the area’s protected status.
The city halted operations once officials recognized their mistake. They’ve since hired engineering firm Kimley-Horn to develop a recovery plan.
“We also recognize the impacts to wildlife, native plant life and the overall ecology,” said Crystal Owens, assistant city manager over public works. “We’ve asked our consultant to address all of these elements in the recovery plan. I understand the importance of the Preserve.”
Rex ordered an independent audit of contractor agreements regarding infrastructure access.
The city outlined six priorities: preserve protection, forest recovery, partnership building, departmental coordination, community communication, and infrastructure maintenance.
Mayor Dylan Hedrick acknowledged the council’s responsibility to prevent similar incidents in the future.
“Your Council heard you clearly: this was not acceptable, and it must not happen again. We understand that trust in your city government is earned over many years, but can be lost in a moment. We are committed to rebuilding that trust — starting now.”
The original sewer line predates the Preserve by nearly 20 years. A second line was added in 2009.
City officials promised regular updates on restoration efforts at future work sessions.