Clearwater Intracoastal Island Cleanup

Tampa Bay’s aquatic preserves contain nearly half a million acres of submerged lands, coastal habitat, and islands across three counties and feature a wide variety of recreational and nature-based opportunities such as kayaking and fishing. Managing these precious resources is a big task and staff is always in need of caring and passionate volunteers to assist in keeping the aquatic preserves in their best condition! Join Keep Pinellas Beautiful and Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserves for a rewarding morning of service on Wednesday, November 13th. Volunteers will travel out to the islands on the Tampa Bay Aquatic Preserve vessel and assist in removing marine debris from the island.

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WHEN: Wednesday, November 13th @ 9:00 AM

WHERE TO MEET: Seminole Boat Ramp - 198 Seminole St, Clearwater, FL 33755

WHAT TO WEAR: Most of the time we are not able to anchor the boat right next to shore, so accessing the islands requires wading in the ocean a considerable distance. A second pair of shoes (and socks) is highly recommended, so that you can change out of your wet wading shoes once ashore. Open-toed shoes (flip flops, chacos, etc.) may lead to serious injury on oyster reefs or other sharp objects in the ocean. Close-toed shoes (ex. an old pair of gym shoes) for both wading and island work ARE REQUIRED. The island can be buggy this time of year - long pants and long sleeve shirts are recommended.

WHAT TO EXPECT: Volunteers will be provided with cleanup supplies and protective gear (ex. gloves). Water, sunscreen, bug repellent, and first aid supplies will be provided. You are responsible for bringing your own reusable water bottle, sun protection (ex. hat and sunglasses), and lunch/snacks. Due to the nature of the work for this project, volunteers must be at least 16 years of age. Any volunteers under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a chaperone for the duration of the day and will need to have waiver forms signed by a parent or guardian prior to going out into the field.

Unlike more developed parks, preserves offer little in the way of amenities. There may be a bathroom at the boat ramp or marina where we meet in the morning, but once we are on the islands, assume there will be no facilities other than natural vegetation.

PARKING: Available onsite

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Contact Megan Jackson, Program Coordinator, at [email protected] or 727-533-0402 with any questions or concerns.

Host or Publisher Stephanie Ellington