The Port of San Diego and San Diego Working Waterfront have opened their arms to the local populace for the 34th annual Operation Clean Sweep. Set to take place on August 24, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., this community effort focuses on purging San Diego Bay of trash and debris, with a well-earned afterparty for participants on Shelter Island. Details about joining this eco-friendly initiative can be found at sdworkingwaterfront.com/events/operation-clean-sweep.
As part of last year's haul, nearly one thousand volunteers collected more than 10.5 tons of refuse, according to a statement obtained by the Port of San Diego. The sprawling shoreline was rid of litter encompassing household appliances, tires, and materials cast aside into the bay's serene waters. "We all want clean water and clean neighborhoods, so we have to pitch in and pick up the trash that comes out of storm drains, or down creeks or from flood channels, mucking up the shoreline or settling onto the bottom of the bay," Sharon Cloward, president of the San Diego Working Waterfront, told the Port of San Diego.
This year, an anticipated 1,100 volunteers will gather at various cleanup sites, including Barrio Logan, Chula Vista, Coronado, and more. While lending a hand, attendees will receive a free t-shirt, which also secures a complimentary meal from Leilani’s food truck during the Shelter Island celebration. The post-clean activities will feature children's soccer with San Diego FC, music from DJ Justin Kanoya, and other festive inclusions. It's a full morning of community, conservation, and celebration awaiting anyone ready to invest in their local environment.
Operation Clean Sweep has stood as a beacon of environmental stewardship and cooperation among the San Diego community. Frank Urtasun, Chairman of the Port of San Diego Board of Port Commissioners, emphasized their continued commitment to the cause. "As environmental champions, the Port of San Diego is dedicated to protecting the health of San Diego Bay so that all residents and visitors can enjoy it," Urtasun stated in an interview with the Port of San Diego.
