MONMOUTH COUNTY – Beaches throughout Monmouth County had a huge “clean sweep” as volunteers removed harmful litter from beaches and waterways for Clean Ocean Action’s (COA) 39th Annual Beach Sweeps.
Volunteers braved the brisk winds and light showers at 81 locations, a record high for Beach Sweeps. Those participating included civic groups, businesses, and scout groups, and schools.
Clean Ocean Action is a leading national and regional voice working to protect waterways using science, law, research, education and citizen action. Their annual Beach Sweeps are held every April and October and are the state’s largest volunteer driven, citizen science and environmental event.
Volunteers removing an estimated tens of thousands of items from beaches/waterways.
“With such a blustery, cold day, we are blown away by the remarkable tenacity and dedication of the Beach Sweeps volunteers to help protect and improve the beaches and ocean which bring them such joy. We especially salute our heroic Beach Captains,” said Cindy Zipf, COA Executive Director.
The Sandy Hook location had one of the strongest turnouts in the state, having around 400 volunteers clean the beach. Those 400 volunteers included students from Marine Academy of Science & Technology.
For many years, MAST students have helped Clean Ocean Action set up and manage registration and hundreds of volunteers at the Sandy Hook Beach Sweeps location.
“I am very excited to bring the MAST students to join the volunteers from all over NJ to participate in the 39th Annual Beach Sweeps. Environmental stewardship isn’t just about cleaning the beaches but building community and the Beach Sweeps exemplify this every year,” said Liza Baskin, Marine Science Instructor at Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST).
Other Monmouth County locations included: Aberdeen, Asbury Park, Atlantic Highlands, Avon-by-the-Sea, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Deal, Highlands, Keansburg, Keyport, Loch Arbour & Allenhurst, Long Branch, Manasquan, Middletown Township, Monmouth Beach, Ocean Grove, Red Bank, Rumson, Sea Bright, Sea Girt, and Spring Lake.
The COA’s coveted “Roster of the Ridiculous” did not disappoint this year. Some of the most ridiculous items found by volunteers included a sneaker, old statue, a toy piggy, and a crab trap.
