Phil Milstein Park, a small strip of land wedged between the South Platte River and I‑25, has long been labeled one of Denver’s most overlooked parks. After years of neglect, a group of local anglers from Denver Trout Unlimited is stepping in to change that reputation.
Guardians of an “unloved” river
“We have a penchant for unloved things,” said Rick Mikesell, a board member of Denver Trout Unlimited and a professional fly‑fishing guide. “The water quality is fantastic, the fish are thriving, but the park itself looks rough around the edges.” Mikesell and his fellow volunteers see the park’s location on the river as an untapped resource for families and anglers alike.
Adoption plan and monthly clean‑ups
To officially adopt the park, the nonprofit commits to a monthly presence from April through November, spending at least four volunteer hours each visit. In practice, clean‑ups often draw 40 to 100 participants, turning a single effort into a community event. The group’s first clean‑up began this month, and a Halloween‑themed cleanup is slated for mid‑October.
Beyond trash removal
While picking up litter and trimming overgrown foliage are immediate goals, the volunteers are also working with Denver Parks and Recreation to introduce native plant species. “We’re pushing the boundaries of the Denver parks program, looking at infrastructure and planting improvements,” Mikesell explained. The aim is to create a lasting, environmentally sound landscape that supports both wildlife and neighborhood families.
River health and future potential
The South Platte River, which winds 12.5 miles through the city, once served Indigenous peoples of the Front Range and later powered Denver’s growth. Decades of industrialization left the river with harmful bacteria, limiting activities such as tubing or fishing for food. Recent city investments—flood control, greenway development, and the new South Platte River Trail—have begun to revitalize the corridor, though projects like the Kroenke‑backed River Mile development remain unfinished.
Despite these challenges, Mikesell believes the river holds “secret luxury” potential. He envisions a future where his own children can enjoy a clean, vibrant riverfront without it feeling like a hidden spot. “In ten years, the whole city can embrace it and enjoy it,” he said.
Community impact
By adopting Phil Milstein Park, Denver Trout Unlimited is not only improving a neglected green space but also modeling how local volunteers can partner with city agencies to protect natural resources. Their efforts highlight the power of faith‑based and family‑oriented stewardship, reinforcing the idea that strong neighborhoods are built on shared responsibility for the environment.
Original reporting: Denverite — read the source article.
