Volunteers Needed for Marine Debris Cleanup to Help Restore Suncoast Waters

This Saturday, Dec. 14, Suncoast Waterkeeper, in partnership with Suncoast Aqua Ventures, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program (SBEP), Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP), Tampa Bay Waterkeeper, Organized Fishermen of Florida, and Sarasota Bay Watch, invites volunteers to give back and support the mangroves and waterways that protect and sustain our coast.

The 2024 hurricane season left a significant impact on the Suncoast, and while the community embraces the holiday season, local waterways still bear the scars of storms Helene and Milton.

Using data from Suncoast Waterkeeper’s post-hurricane marine debris survey, cleanup efforts will focus on the mangroves and shorelines most affected by the storms. Volunteers will target two key sites: Terra Ceia Bay at Tropic Isles and Manatee River at Blenker Marina.

“While we often hear how fragile our marine resources are, the fact is they are extremely resilient, to a point! Lending a helping hand and support­ing these organizations in the field has never been more important," Rusty Chinnis, Suncoast Waterkeeper Board Chair. 

Event Details
● When: Saturday, December 14, 2024
● Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
● Needed: Kayakers, shallow draft boats & shoreline helpers
● What to Bring: Reusable water bottle, protective clothing, sturdy shoes, and a readiness to make a difference
● What’s Provided: Gloves, cleanup supplies, and lunch to refuel after your hard work

This is a unique opportunity to help restore the health of local coastal ecosystems. Together, we can address the lingering impacts of this year’s storms and ensure a healthier future for our environment. Participants are needed as kayakers, shallow-draft boat operators, and shoreline helpers.

Exact meet-up locations will be shared via email upon registration. Sign up now at https://bit.ly/dec_14_cleanup to secure your spot and receive additional event details!