Over 750 sites across California set for this year’s Coastal Cleanup Day set to take place on September 21
San Mateo, California – California Coastal Cleanup Day, an effort involving thousands of volunteers around the state to clean trash off beaches, rivers, and other waterways, marks its 40th anniversary this September. Recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the biggest single-day volunteer effort in the world, the event seeks to shield California’s fragile and varied coastal ecosystem from pollution’s threats
Volunteers from throughout the state will assemble at more than 750 approved sites on one Saturday, ranging from inland waterways and urban highways to beautiful beaches and busy bays. These sites—which are listed on the California Coastal Commission’s website using an interactive map—span the Bay Area and reach the outer limits of Mendocino and San Joaquin counties.
The California Coastal Commission, in partnership with California State Parks and the Ocean Conservancy, spearheads this massive effort. Combined, they enable a day of environmental care that appeals to Californians’ well-known commitment to community action and conservation.
Among the sites underlined for the cleanup this year are Carmel River State Beach in Carmel-by- the-Sea, the Oxbow of the Napa River, and Muir Beach in Marin County. Other important places are the famous Glass Beach in Fort Bragg and Sandy Beach in Rio Vista, both of which provide distinctive scenery for which volunteers will try to protect.
Everyone can participate; event details and venue information are accessible online. To guarantee a coordinated effort, organizers encourage volunteers to register before of the event. Californians have a great chance to directly improve the health of their surroundings by working together, therefore guaranteeing the beauty and diversity of the coastal regions of the state for next generations.
Coastal Cleanup Day in San Mateo County
The San Mateo community is gearing up for the upcoming Bayfront Cleanup event scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024, as part of the larger California Coastal Clean-up initiative. This annual event, known for blending environmental preservation with community spirit, will take place at two primary locations: Seal Point Park in Foster City and a nearby parking lot at Rock Harbor Lane.
Volunteers are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes suitable for varied terrain and clothes that can handle a bit of dirt as they clean from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. An added educational component aims to enlighten participants about the impact of trash on natural habitats, urging them to bring reusable water bottles to minimize disposable waste.
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The cleanup will also feature the “Catch of the Day” contest, adding a fun twist by rewarding volunteers who find the Heaviest, Strangest, or Most Valuable items. Early birds will be welcomed with free coffee and donuts, fueling their cleanup efforts in a family-friendly atmosphere, though minors must be accompanied by an adult. Parking is available along J. Hart Clinton Drive, but arriving early is recommended due to expected crowds.
For students, the event provides a valuable opportunity to earn service hours, with volunteer verification available near the registration desk. Additional information and volunteer opportunities can be found on the event’s website, and those unable to attend can still contribute to the state’s environmental goals by using the CleanSwell app throughout September.
