Do you love seeing trash, dirty diapers, or dog poop on your favorite beach? Neither do we. It’s gross to look at and it’s also dangerous. Bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants can easily get from the beach to the water, and then to you when you swim or wade.
This summer, do your part to keep your swimming spots clean and safe. Every little bit helps make sure Washington’s gorgeous beaches stay that way.
What can you do?
- Pick up trash and throw it away. If your beach doesn’t have a garbage can, bring your trash home and throw it away there. Things like dirty diapers belong in the trash, not on the beach.
- Scoop your pet’s poop. A lot of beaches have pet waste stations with bags and trash cans but if yours doesn’t, use your own plastic bag to scoop the poop and throw it away.
- If you see a problem at the beach, report it. Oil or sewage spills, broken bathroom facilities, and other issues can be reported to park rangers, your local health agency, or the state Departments of Ecology and Health.
- Take part in beach clean-up days. Washington Coast Savers, the Ocean Conservancy, and tons of local groups organize beach clean-up days every year, so pitch in!
Jessica Bennett is the Acting BEACH Program Manager and can be reached at jessica.bennett@ecy.wa.gov
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