Over the last few years—and especially during the Covid-19 pandemic—Santa Clara County's Coyote Creek watershed has become an inflection point for how the South Bay must address issues surrounding its homelessness crisis and the environmental impact of creekside encampments.

A contingent of conservationists kicked off a campaign Nov. 2 to permanently preserve Coyote Valley from the threat of development.

With a concerted effort, Santa Clara County can restore its creeks to their natural state while housing the homeless who set up camp on their shores.

A recruitment effort is underway to bring thousands of litter picker-uppers to South Bay creeks for Coastal Cleanup Day this weekend.