This article was published on News-n-Views
Orange County has a deep-rooted history of living in the ocean lifestyle. From the surf to the sand this southern California land is devoted to its beaches. The South OC Chapter of the internationally recognized Surfrider Foundation held a beach clean up this past Saturday at Salt Creek Beach in Dana Point.
From 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. volunteers from around the county showed up to help preserve this popular shore. The smallest of debris were not to be overlooked, as most of the detrimental materials on the beach are small plastics and other non-biodegradable materials.
Despite statewide laws restricting smoking on public beaches, cigarette butts are still a major problem for littering the sands. Many surfers and leisure seekers are saddened by the conditions of their beaches and actively work with Surfrider to protect these precious coastal ecosystems from unnatural clutter.
The mission statement of the foundation describes Surfrider as “a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans, waves and beaches for all people, through conservation, activism, research and education (C.A.R.E).”
The Orange County Chapter has faced many battles to save the beaches of Southern California. From toll roads to construction near our childhood beaches, battles with the expansion of the city have presented challenges for Surfrider and its supporters. Its gorilla preservation tactics of beach cleanups and other events, the foundation has found the OC community to be a positive force in preservation of our prized recreation areas.
Come out and meet other ocean lovers in the community at the chapter’s Holiday Party happening Friday December 4th from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Hennessey’s in Dana Point. There will be free admission, live music and silent auction items to support the So Cal Beaches.
