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In 1970, millions of people across the nation showed their deep concern over the pollution and negligence taking place toward our environment. This unity forced the issue of environmental conservation into political action with the purpose to bring legislative change to the lack of environmental protective regulations.

In response to this, Earth Day was established, and in its wake many laws have been passed, including the Clean Air Act, Water Quality Improvement Act, Safe Drinking Water Act and the Endangered Species Act. The message behind Earth Day grows stronger as public awareness increases each year. Our health and survival depend on our ability to protect and preserve our environment.

The Mississippi Coastal Cleanup Program (MSCCP), with continued support from Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant, works to promote the conservation of our local marine environments by influencing active stewardship with our community. We have dedicated our April Monthly Cleanup as our Earth Day Celebration Cleanup where volunteers can gather and spend the morning removing trash and debris from one of our local Mississippi beaches.

Data on what type and how much debris is collected during a cleanup is recorded on data sheets provided by the site captain. (Photo by Mississippi Coastal Cleanup Program)

This year, we are tackling the Biloxi West Beach Boardwalk. There will be two cleanup stations: one at each end of the boardwalk. Volunteers will be provided supplies needed to safely participate in the event. There will also be a raffle for a goody bag, and participants will receive a T-shirt. Registration is open on our website. Grab some friends and family and join us!

Upcoming events:

April Monthly Cleanup – Earth Day Celebration Cleanup!

When: Saturday, April 22, 2023 – 8- 10 a.m.
Where: Biloxi West Beach Boardwalk, Biloxi, MS

May Monthly Cleanup

When: Saturday, May 20, 2023 – 8:30-10 a.m.
Where: Pascagoula Beach, Pascagoula, MS

World Ocean Day Beach Cleanup

When: Saturday, June 10, 2023 – 8-10 a.m.
Where: Ken Comb’s Pier and Boat Launch, Gulfport, MS

The MSCCP currently has cleanups scheduled across the Mississippi Coast for the year. For more information about these events, please check us out online. If volunteers want to lead their own cleanup effort or cannot make a scheduled event, the MSCCP can provide cleanup supplies through the “Request a Bin” initiative.

 

Meet the author

Mandy Rigsby

Ecotourism and Stewardship Specialist

As part of our Mississippi-Alabama Sea Grant Consortium Engagement Team, Mandy Rigsby works with nature-based tourism businesses to connect visitors to local nature and its wildlife. She also... Read more

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