On September 24, 2011, The Land Trust of West Haven coordinated a beach cleanup at Sandy Point with Save The Sound, a program of The Connecticut Fund for the Environment. In addition to being part of the Ocean Conservancy’s “International Coastal Cleanup” (http://www.oceanconservancy.org/our-work/marine-debris/international-coastal-cleanup-11.html) , this year’s Sandy Point cleanup was Save The Sound’s feature cleanup in celebration of National Estuaries Day (http://estuaries.gov/GetInvolved/Default.aspx?ID=153).

This year’s cleanup was also greatly aided by the generosity and presence of Unger Global of Bridgeport (http://www.ungerglobal.com/bagger/index-us.html). Unger donated scores of trash grabbers and collapsible portable bins to Save The Sound; these tools will be invaluable in future cleanups. In addition, Unger employees participated in the cleanup, and brought along snacks and drinks, as well.

The value in these cleanup events goes well beyond the proximal result of cleaner beaches; through their participation, children as well as adults gain a deeper appreciation for the impact that garbage has on aquatic ecosystems.

Over 80 volunteers from area schools and clubs participated in making this cleanup a remarkable event, despite threats of bad weather.Thanks to all volunteers, the beach cleanup was a tremendous success. We look forward to your participation in future events.

A special thank you to Kierrran Broatch of Save the Sound for the photograph of the volunteers at the Beach Cleanup.