It’s summertime on the coast and fun times are being had. With all the activities and commotion, it’s easy to forget the importance of the Leave Only Footprints program and the do’s and don’ts required by the cities of Orange Beach and Gulf Shores.
The Leave Only Footprints program was created to ensure our beautiful beaches are here for future generations to enjoy. Our 32-mile stretch of sugar-white sand draws millions of visitors each year. With that many people, it’s important to follow the rules and regulations to keep a safe, clean, family-friendly environment.
Time at the beach with the family creates an ideal setting in which to teach the kids how to be good stewards of the environment. Try these suggestions to get them involved.
- Make it a game. Pack some extra disposable bags in your beach gear and let the kids see who can pick up the most trash in a specified area.
- Let the kids choose which toys to take and make it their responsibility to be sure their toys come back from the beach.
- If the kids insist on digging small holes, make filling them back in part of the fun.
- Create a kid zone where all the toys stay until packing up to leave.
- When leaving, let the young ones participate in packing out. Show them what is recyclable and what is trash, and explain the difference as you place items in the proper bins.
Most of all, have fun and Leave Only Footprints when you go.
“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.”
-Rachel Carson