Watershed

Stories from the Smith River Alliance Newsletter

Coastal Clean-up Recovers Tons of Trash

Community Delivers on Beach Clean-up!

The Del Norte Coastal Cleanup team overcame multiple challenges to organize a successful effort October 17th —- with nearly fifty volunteers participating and over two tons of trash recovered.

With coronavirus concerns and nearby wildfires causing evacuations and hazardous breathing conditions, organizers and project partners chose to reschedule what is normally a September event. Dates were pushed back, air quality monitored and a series of precautions adopted to assure participant safety. The outcome was another successful Coastal Cleanup.

“It was really heartening to see our Del Norte community turnout to maintain the health and beauty of our coastal areas in spite of this year’s challenges” said Tara Dettmar, a cleanup coordinator with SRA.

While last year’s event drew in 250 volunteers, with proper precautions, this year’s cleanup drew participants from the Disaster Animal Response Team (DART), the Del Norte High School Interact Club, and even a few from nearby counties.  Dettmar said the total recovered trash, metal, and recycling was 4,040 pounds.

“We especially appreciate our many business partners who support this work and the Whale Tail Grant Program.  Our business partners are recognized as River Guardians on the SRA website” said Dettmar.

SRA is now recruiting volunteers for Winter and Spring cleanup at areas within the Smith River National Recreation Area (NRA). Up to 80% of coastal trash originates inland so the goal is to clean up the NRA and prevent that trash from reaching the ocean. If interested, please email volunteer@smithriveralliance.org.

Communities Stand Strong Against Strip Mining


Read some of the press and letters submitted in support of the proposed mineral withdrawal.
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Experience the Smith


Clear waters, old-growth forests, salmon and bears... get to know the world famous Smith River and see where we work. Learn more.