Oakland, Calif.– September 15, 2016: Over 60,000 Californians are expected to clean up beaches and waterways for the annual California Coastal Cleanup Day this Saturday. As part of the statewide effort, about 200 volunteers will gather at two Port of Oakland properties to clean up the shoreline.
“This event is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together for one common goal, cleaning up our shoreline that serves both people and the natural environment,” said Amy Tharpe, Port of Oakland Social Responsibility Director. “It’s always a fun and satisfying day for volunteers because after only a few hours of effort, everyone can see a real improvement at the waterfront.”
The Port of Oakland, in partnership with the California Coastal Commission and the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD), is participating by organizing volunteers for two cleanup sites. One is at Middle Harbor Shoreline Park (MHSP) from 9 AM to Noon in the heart of the Oakland Seaport. The Park surrounds a 188-acre shallow water habitat that the Port created to support native aquatic species and endangered birds. There will also be a cleanup campaign at the East Creek Slough near Oakland International Airport.
Last year volunteers collected more than 100 bags of trash and debris from MHSP. Among the discards: a hair-curling iron, a Tamagotchi (handheld digital pet) and a sofa.
The Port of Oakland, Matson (Shipping line serving Oakland) and Rubio’s (East Bay Mexican restaurant) will provide snacks after the cleanup. Volunteers who want to help clean up East Creek Slough will meet at the sign-in tables at Oakport Field, 5737 Oakport Street, Oakland, CA by 9 AM at the latest. Those who want to join the cleanup event at Middle Harbor Shoreline Park should meet at the water’s edge by 9 AM at 2777 Middle Harbor Road, Oakland, CA. Volunteers can RSVP to Derek Lee at [email protected] or 510-627-1185.
About the Port of Oakland:
The Port of Oakland oversees the Oakland seaport, Oakland International Airport, and 20 miles of waterfront. Together with its business partners, the Port supports more than 73,000 jobs in the region and nearly 827,000 jobs across the United States. Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland International Airport through Facebook, or with the Port on Twitter, YouTube, and at www.portofoakland.com.
| Media Contacts: Robert Bernardo Communications Manager Port of Oakland (510) 627-1401 Click here to contact Robert Bernardo Mike Zampa Director of Communications Port of Oakland (510) 627-1565 [email protected] |