It was great to see so many hardworking volunteers last Saturday at the Richmond Shoreline Coastal Cleanup, based from Shimada Friendship Park.
This was my 28th year sponsoring this event, and it's one of my favorite annual traditions. There's nothing quite like the energy and dedication of volunteers working together on a shared natural treasure.
It's hard work, but also fun!
This year, we had about 350 volunteers clear out nearly 1,700 pounds of trash and debris, including much plastic, that takes decades to decompose, posing a risk to the San Francisco Bay wildlife and ecology. Our volunteers ranged from seniors to toddlers, with representation from many youth groups.
Thanks to all of you, including everyone who helped at one of the many other West County cleanup locations, from Pinole to North Richmond to El Sobrante to El Cerrito. Everyone was invited to Shimada to share a free, healthy volunteer lunch.
And thanks to our event partners, the Watershed Project and the City of Richmond, and to all of the businesses and donors who support this event every year.
We couldn't do it without this teamwork.
Take a look at my Flickr photos from the Shimada Park clean-up
here.
For an interesting digital view of the past few Richmond Costal Cleanups take a look at this digital storymap, produced by the County's GIS expert.
I look forward to seeing you next year!
