DEC Announces Annual Beach Cleanup Effort in New York

Public Encouraged to Volunteer at Local Beaches on September 16, 2006

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Denise M. Sheehan today encouraged New Yorkers to help clean up the State's shorelines and beaches as part of the International Coastal Cleanup - the largest volunteer effort in the marine environment - on Saturday, September 16, 2006.

"New York's thousands of miles of beautiful beaches, rivers, lakes, streams and wetlands support our fish and wildlife species, local economies and provide recreational opportunities for community members and visitors," Commissioner Sheehan said. "This annual cleanup effort, now in its 21st year, will help to keep these beautiful coastal resources as clean and healthy as possible. There will be cleanup efforts across the State and I urge the public to get involved and support environmental cleanup within their community."

The International Coastal Cleanup is a volunteer, grassroots effort to remove and document debris from the shores of oceans, streams, lakes, rivers, ponds, and canals throughout the world. In New York State, the event has been coordinated since the 1980s by the Northeast Chapter of the American Littoral Society.

Barbara Cohen, Beach Cleanup Coordinator for the Coastal Cleanup said, "Our thanks go to all the volunteers and their organizations for joining us on September 16th to make a difference on our beaches and waterways."

Last year, more than 10,000 New Yorkers participated in the event, helping to remove over 171,000 pounds of debris from sites throughout the State. This year's cleanup will take place at various New York beaches and coastlines on Long Island Sound, the Hudson River, the Great Lakes, and various other waterways.

"DEC works closely with groups like the American Littoral Society to protect and beautify our unique natural resources," Commissioner Sheehan said. "This is truly an event that the entire family can be a part of and a unique opportunity to introduce children to environmental stewardship."

By recording the amount and type of debris collected, volunteers help present a clearer picture of pollutants affecting our waterways. This is an important step in developing solutions to prevent pollution and protect water quality. Information collected from previous years' cleanups has revealed that nearly 60 percent of all the waterfront debris in New York State is plastic and derives from land-based sources.

The data collected from this year's beach cleanups will be sent to the Ocean Conservancy and included in a national report that is available to legislators, media, and the general public. The information also helps to fine tune educational materials aimed at curbing pollution.

To obtain additional information, a list of cleanup sites, or to volunteer to participate, visit the American Littoral Society website at www.alsnyc.org or call 1-800-449-0790. For assistance in forming a cleanup team of your own, please call (718) 471-2166 or send an e-mail to alsbeach@aol.com .