OC Parks and Newport Bay Conservancy Organize Coastal Cleanup Day to Protect Local Habitats

What's Happening?

OC Parks and the Newport Bay Conservancy are organizing the annual Coastal Cleanup Day at Upper Newport Bay, scheduled for Saturday, September 20, from 9 a.m. to noon. The event aims to recruit nearly 1,000 volunteers to remove trash and invasive plant species from the ecological reserve. This initiative is part of the larger California Coastal Cleanup Day, which occurs every third Saturday in September across the state. Heavy rains this year have contributed to an increased amount of waste, including single-use plastics and disposable masks, in the area. The organizers hope to remove over 10,000 pounds of trash from Upper Newport Bay. Volunteers will work at various sites along the 11-mile bay, including the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center and Newport Aquatic Center. Participants are advised to wear old clothes and closed-toe shoes, and bring gloves, a refillable water bottle, and a trash bag or bucket.

Why It's Important?

The Coastal Cleanup Day at Upper Newport Bay is crucial for preserving local habitats and supporting the local economy, which is significantly bolstered by Orange County's ocean economy. According to Orange County Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Katrina Foley, the event highlights the vital role individuals play in protecting the environment and natural resources. By removing trash and invasive species, the initiative helps maintain the area's unique beauty and ecological balance, which are essential for tourism and local wildlife. The cleanup also serves as an educational opportunity for volunteers, fostering a sense of responsibility towards environmental conservation.

What's Next?

Volunteers can register for the event through eventbrite.com/coastal-cleanup-day. The cleanup is expected to draw individual and group volunteers, including families and children aged six and up, who must have guardian permission and an adult present. All volunteers will receive a commemorative T-shirt. The event partners include the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the city of Newport Beach, and other local organizations. The success of this year's cleanup could lead to increased community engagement and awareness about environmental issues, potentially influencing future conservation efforts in the region.