Commissioner Jean-Pierre L. Oriol of the Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR) announces that the Division of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) is celebrating Coastweeks International Coastal Cleanup, also known as COASTWEEKS from Saturday, Sept. 16 through Sunday, Oct. 29.
COASTWEEKS is a nationwide effort coordinated by The Ocean Conservancy that has been happening for the past 30 years in the U.S. Virgin Islands with the help of many community partners.
“Removal of debris is important to maintaining the vibrancy and aesthetic quality of our ecosystems. Collecting data during cleanups is also an important process that ensures we capture vital information such as the types, quantities and weight of debris removed,” said Commissioner Oriol. “Without this data, removal of the debris on its own will not prevent and reduce debris from ending up on our coastlines,” said Oriol.
CZM has selected Vessup Beach on St. Thomas for cleanup and is requesting the help of the community. Volunteers and students for community service are needed to help clean this beach on from 9-11 a.m., Saturday, Sept. 23. Supplies such as gloves, bags and water will be provided.
Another cleanup will be hosted on St. Croix from 9-11 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 14. Stay tuned for other cleanup locations.
If there are any groups that want to participate in this program by cleaning up Vessup Beach or any other beach, please contact Zola Roper, marine debris coordinator at 774-3320 ext. 5134 orzola.roper@dpnr.vi.gov.
