SANTA MONICA - Heal the Bay is searching for volunteers to help remove trash along Los Angeles County beaches and inland waterways as part of its 21st annual Coastal Cleanup Day on Sept. 25.Thousands of volunteer are expected to mobilize from 9 a.m. to noon at more than 60 cleanup sites, from Compton to Malibu. Volunteers will canvass beaches, parks, creeks, lakes, highways and alleys to remove ocean-bound trash and beautify neighborhoods. Coastal Cleanup Day volunteers have collected more than 1 million pounds of trash in Los Angeles County since 1990's inaugural event, equaling roughly the weight of a fully-leaded Boeing 747 jumbo jet, organizers said. By removing debris from beaches and inland neighborhoods, organizers said volunteers reduce blight, protect marine animals and bolster the regional economy. Five locations in need of special attention this year are Dominguez Channel, Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park, the Los Angeles River and Encino's Haskell Creek. These urban sites drain runoff from huge swaths of Los Angeles County and are overwhelmed by such litter as plastic bags and fast-food packaging, officials with Heal the Bay said. In addition to 61 cleanup sites this year, SCUBA divers will be fishing out trash in Santa Monica, Redondo Beach and Leo Carrillo state beach. There will also be a kayak effort in Marina Del Rey. A Google map of all cleanup sites can be found at www.healthebay.org/ccd. "The ocean needs us now more than ever and we all have a duty to protect it," said Eveline Bravo, beach programs manager for Heal the Bay. "A single day of concerted action and education can make a world of difference." Heal the Bay is seeking volunteers of all ages and physical abilities. No special equipment or experience is necessary. Site captains will organize a diverse mix of people, families, neighborhoods, community groups, schools, faith-based groups, sports teams and businesses. Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own bucket or reusable bag and gloves to collect debris. For registration information and cleanup tips, go to www.healthebay.org/ccd.

********** Published: September 9, 2010 - Volume 9 - Issue 21