Coastal Cleanup to tackle island Saturday

The University of Florida, in conjunction with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), seeks volunteers to participate in coastal cleanup events on St. George Island on Saturday, Jan. 19, and on St. Joseph Peninsula on Sunday, Jan. 20.

These beaches provide important resources for nesting shorebirds and sea turtles as well as the local economy, and by volunteering for these cleanup efforts to remove unsightly and harmful trash and debris, you can help improve our valuable coastal habitats. Volunteers will also document the amount and types of items they pick up on the beach to determine sources of coastal debris to help reduce and prevent its adverse impacts on beaches. If you are interested in volunteering for these cleanup events or have any questions, please e-mail Jessica McKenzie at sjpturtlepatrol@gmail.com

The St. George Island Coastal Cleanup on Saturday runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until all sections of beach have been covered. Participants are asked to meet at the St. George Lighthouse parking lot, at 2 East Gulf Beach Drive, and to dress appropriately for weather and walking. Trash bags, gloves, and water will be provided.

The clean-up on St. Joseph Peninsula on Sunday runs from 9 a.m. to noon EST, or until all sections of beach have been covered. Participants meet at Cape Palms Park, just south of Rish Park, and are asked to dress appropriately for weather and walking. Trash bags, gloves, and water will be provided.