Trying to decide when to plan your next trip to the beach? Plan your visit to the Alabama Gulf Coast during the Alabama Coastal Cleanup and join a 32-year tradition of giving back at the beach! Always the 3rd Saturday in September, this year’s gathering of helping hands is September 21, 2019, from 8 a.m. to noon.

About the event

The Alabama Coastal Cleanup, held on International Coastal Cleanup Day, is an incredible opportunity to come together and care for the coastline we love so well! It is just one of many area initiatives dedicated to protecting our priceless natural resources for generations to come.

While many are devoted to “leaving only footprints”, large amounts of trash are still found on our beaches and along our coast every year. According to the Alabama Coastal Cleanup team, more than 1.6 million pounds of trash and recyclable material have been removed from the coast on cleanup days since the first event.

How to participate

Any and all are welcome to lend a helping hand. Teams will assemble at 28 different zones throughout Mobile and Baldwin Counties. Volunteers will receive different bags to distinguish between trash and recyclable material. Your Zone Captain will be available to answer any questions you have. Here are just a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Remember your hat and sunscreen.
  • Drink plenty of fluids. It can get hot out there!
  • Be alert and careful to avoid sea turtle nests as you go, as nesting season is May through October. If you spot a nest that hasn’t been marked off, report it by calling 866-SEA-TURTLE.
  • Kids are encouraged to volunteer, but should be accompanied by an adult at all times.
  • Be cautious near sand dunes and other fragile ecosystems.

You can learn more and find your cleanup zone of choice at alabamacoastalcleanup.com. After a morning of volunteering, we hope you’ll go out to the beach, enjoy and leave only footprints!