Give the beach a hand

Summer is a beach’s time to shine, as millions flock to the surf and sand of Southern California. Unfortunately, the crowds leave behind plastic bags, cigarette butts and other trash. Eco-group Heal the Bay’s “Nothin’ but Sand” volunteers help restore those shores, and this Saturday they head to Will Rogers State Beach, which could use a little TLC after the long, hard season.

“Will Rogers is a heavily used beach,” said Meredith McCarthy, Director of Programs at Heal the Bay. “In these times of budget crisis, it’s nice to back up beach maintenance and give these beaches a thorough cleaning so the hundreds of thousands of people who go there have the best experience possible.”

McCarthy notes that this year’s volunteers seem more educated about local environmental issues that affect beaches, a change she attributes in part to new government initiatives. “People now have an understanding of the importance of things like bag bans and Styrofoam bans–things the County has been such a good lead on.”

In an effort to increase participation in the cleanups, Heal the Bay has partnered with Ford Motor Company. Volunteers who test drive one of Ford’s new eco-friendly vehicles are entered to win one, and runners-up could win VIP access to a private beach party at Hotel Erwin. Even better, the company donates $50 to Heal the Bay’s cleanup efforts for each test drive. Winners will be announced at Dockweiler State Beach next month during Coastal Cleanup Day.

Volunteers for the cleanup must be 12 years old or accompanied by a parent. Drivers who are 18 years old with a valid license must schedule a test drive online. Bags and gloves will be provided, but help cut down on waste by bringing your own gloves, bag or bucket from home. All volunteers must sign a waiver, available online or at the event. Registration for the cleanup is encouraged, but not required, and can be made by email or by calling 1-(800) HEAL BAY, extension 148.

It all takes place this Saturday, August 20, at 15800 Pacific Coast Highway, by the end of Temescal Canyon Road in the Palisades. Test drives start at 9 a.m. and the cleanup is at 10 a.m. Parking for this particular cleanup is just a buck. If you want to help out but can’t make the trip, you can always donate a few dollars online to train and supply volunteers.

Posted 8/18/11