International Coastal Cleanup Comes to Tigertail Beach

Friends of Tigertail sponsors quarterly beach cleanups, and one of the most important of these events is the International Coastal Cleanup held annually the third week of September. On Saturday, September 18, 2021, Tigertail Beach was a participant in this world-wide effort to collect and list the types of debris uncovered. The County and Keep Collier beautiful are partners in the effort, contributing supplies.

The International Coastal Cleanup was started in 1986 by two members of the Ocean Conservancy to encourage volunteers to collect trash from coastal areas worldwide on the same date. Tallying the items retrieved aids in identifying major sources of debris and increases awareness of the threat that garbage and pollution pose to marine and coastal animals and plants. Covering 71% of the earth, oceans help to produce drinking water, absorb CO2 which decreases global warming, and supply food and recreation, so keeping them healthy is important in many ways.

Usually a well-attended event, this year was no exception as 76 energetic participants gathered to rid Tigertail Beach and park of debris. Of particular note is that 42 of the volunteers were students at MIA. Supporting community service is a priority for the school, and the students contribute significantly to most of the cleanup events as well as other community causes. Other noteworthy participants included Rick LoCastro, Collier County Commissioner, Barry Williams, Director of Collier County Parks and Recreation, John Lafakis from City of Marco Public Works, members of Rookery Bay, MICA, and BARC, and residents and visitors. Friends of Tigertail greatly appreciates all of their support.

In all, 15 full large garbage bags weighing 94 pounds total were collected. The most unusual item was a "wig on a stick" found by MIA student Christopher Hackman. In addition, the usual plastic, glass, food containers, cigarettes, construction materials, and clothing were brought in.

While frustrating that some of the beach going public are careless in leaving discarded items on the beach, the work of the volunteers is heartening.

The next Tigertail Beach cleanup will be on Saturday, December 4, 2021. For more information refer to the Friends of Tigertail website or Facebook page.