Volunteers Needed for Operation Marine Debris Cleanup at St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge
Help Protect Florida’s Coastline – Join Us September 10th!
Tallahassee, FL — The Southern Waste Information eXchange, Inc. (SWIX) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) invite community members, environmental groups, students, and outdoor enthusiasts to participate in Operation Marine Debris, a cleanup event at the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge Lighthouse Region on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
This vital effort is part of the Southeast Marine Debris Cleanup Initiative (SMDCI), a community-driven program focused on removing harmful debris from coastal ecosystems and promoting long-term prevention through education and community engagement.
Event Details:
– Date: Wednesday, September 10, 2025
– Time: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
– Location: St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, Lighthouse Region
– Staging Area: Lighthouse Boat Ramp
– Admission: Free Refuge Entry for all participants
– Contact: LeAnn Sbordone, SWIX
– 📞 850-386-6280
– 📧 [email protected]
Why It Matters:
Marine debris isn’t just unsightly — it poses serious threats to wildlife, water quality, and Florida’s coastal economy. This cleanup offers a meaningful opportunity to take action to protect one of Florida’s most treasured natural areas.
What to Bring:
Participants are encouraged to wear old tennis shoes or closed-toe shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, and to bring bug spray, gloves, and a walking stick. Trash bags will be provided.
Cleanup zones include the Boat Ramp, Lighthouse, Sand Cove, Minnie Cove, and Big Cove. Volunteers will be assigned to specific regions upon arrival at the staging area.
Community Collaboration:
This initiative is supported by a coalition of environmental organizations and community stakeholders, including the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS), Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), Keep Florida Beautiful, Keep Wakulla County Beautiful, the Institute of Science and Public Affairs at Florida State University, MARPAN Recycling, and local conservation agencies. All participants are encouraged to visit the Refuge Welcome Center before or after the event.
Join Us!
Be part of the solution. Help us protect our coastal ecosystems, support marine wildlife, and keep Florida beautiful. Sign up today and spread the word!
